EMERSON ELECTRIC CO. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160120383 | APPARATUS, METHOD, AND SYSTEMS FOR SECURING AN ACCESSORY TO A VACUUM APPLIANCE - Described are methods, apparatuses, and systems for securing a vacuum appliance to a vacuum device including a first locking adapter that includes a tab and a second locking adapter that includes a receiving slot. The first and second adapters form an airtight seal when the tab is received by the slot by rotating one adapter relative to the other. The receiving slot can include a slot terminus to restrict rotational movement of the first adapter relative to the second. The apparatus can further include a securing slot that can secure the tab within a slot terminus such that a portion of the second locking adapter adjacent to the receiving slot is adapted to flex. Through the described rotation, the first and second adapters tighten and become rigid thus minimizing both the slippage between these two elements and the leakage between the vacuum device and any attached appliances. | 05-05-2016 |
20160102675 | EFFICIENT VACUUM CLEANER FAN INLET - A vacuum comprising a canister and a removable lid assembly that is configured to couple to the canister. The lid assembly includes a motor, an impeller coupled to the motor, a filter mounting structure configured to receive a filter element, and an impeller inlet with curved inner walls. These curved inner walls help to minimize air flow path disruptions. | 04-14-2016 |
20160100731 | SWIVEL ASSEMBLY FOR CONNECTING A WAND TO A VACUUM ACCESSORY AND ASSOCIATED ACCESSORY TOOL FOR USE ON HARD SURFACES - Described are swivel systems and swivel assemblies for connecting a vacuum appliance to a vacuum accessory. The assemblies can include first and second arcuate members that each includes a tab and a receiving section so the latter can receive the other member's tab. The assembly can be adapted to be coupled to the accessory to permit the appliance to pivot relative to the accessory about two independent axes. The swivel system can include a vacuum adapter and a connector adapted to permit the vacuum adapter to pivot about a vacuum accessory. A plenum chamber can be formed in the adapter that is in fluid communication with one or more vacuum hoses to balance the airflow within the adapter. With the swivel systems and assemblies described herein, the versatility and efficiency of vacuum appliances and other tools can be improved through their multi-axes rotational capabilities and balanced airflow configurations. | 04-14-2016 |
20160076234 | MAGNETIC BAFFLE RING AND MAGNETIC BAFFLE FOR FOOD WASTE DISPOSER - A magnetic baffle ring has a ring with a plurality of magnets disposed therein. A magnetic baffle has a baffle having an outer geometry that conforms to a sink drain opening. The baffle of the magnetic baffle has the magnetic baffle ring disposed therein. | 03-17-2016 |
20160075574 | FOOD WASTE DISPOSER DISCHARGE TREATMENT DEVICE - A discharge treatment device includes an entry section with an inlet configured to connect to a discharge outlet of a food waste disposer. The discharge treatment device includes an exit section with an outlet configured to connect to a drain pipe and to discharge the discharge stream into the drain pipe. The discharge treatment device includes a holding section connected to the entry section and the exit section, with the holding section having an interior portion with first openings that receive the discharge stream from the entry section and second openings that discharge the discharge stream into the exit section. The holding section has a third opening for receiving a dissolvable additive pellet that dissolves in the discharge stream when the at discharge stream flows from the entry section to the exit section through the interior portion of the holding section. | 03-17-2016 |
20160073850 | Food Waste Collector System With Overhead Sprayer - A food waste collector system has a tank, a pump that recirculates water by pumping it from the tank through a spout that discharges into the top of the tank, and an overhead sprayer. The overhead sprayer has a nozzle fluidly coupled by a fresh water valve to a fresh water passage of a water line and by a recirculating water valve to a recirculating water passage of the water line. The overhead sprayer also has a valve handle disposed at the nozzle and coupled to the fresh water valve and the recirculating water valve. | 03-17-2016 |
20160068141 | TRANSPORTATION VACUUM ASSEMBLY - A vacuum cleaner assembly designed for use in a vehicle having a passenger compartment such as those with at least one row of seats and a cargo area. The vacuum cleaner assembly preferably includes a power head, a collection drum or other container, and a hose. The powerhead of the present invention is powered by the vehicle's electrical system and is preferably mounted between exterior body panels and interior compartment panels of the vehicle. For example, the power head may be mounted between the exterior body panels and the interior compartment panels adjacent to, but not in the cargo area. | 03-10-2016 |
20160066758 | Systems, Methods, and Apparatuses for Controlling the Power Supply of a Vacuum Cleaner Motor - Applicant has created systems, methods, and apparatuses for controlling the power supply of a vacuum cleaner motor. The systems and apparatuses include pressure taps to detect a pressure differential within a vacuum cleaner, a float that adjusts depending on an amount of liquid stored, and a power switch that toggles based on the pressure differential created by the position of the float. Alternatively, the float can be replaced by an air chamber so that the pressure differential is created by liquid rising above the volume of air trapped in the chamber. The method can include interrupting the current supplied to an electrical circuit of a power switch based upon a pressure differential created within the vacuum. By controlling the power supply to a vacuum cleaner motor based on a pressure differential created by the amount of liquid stored within the vacuum cleaner, the vacuum cleaner can automatically disable the vacuum cleaner's motor as the vacuum approaches its maximum liquid capacity. | 03-10-2016 |
20160053473 | FOOD WASTE DISPOSER SYSTEM AND STOPPER FOR FOOD WASTE DISPOSER SYSTEM - A food waste disposer system has a food waste disposer and a rechargeable power source that provides power to a motor of the food waste disposer. In an aspect, the motor is a permanent magnet DC motor having a nominal no-load speed in the range of 15,000 revolutions per minute to 30,000 revolutions per minute and the motor section includes a gear reduction mechanism. In an aspect, the food waste disposer system includes a power module that communicates wirelessly with a wireless activator. In an aspect, a stopper receivable in an inlet of the food waste disposer includes or is couplable to a power source which in an aspect is a rechargeable power source and in an aspect, is disposed in a housing of the stopper. In an aspect, the stopper includes a cord for coupling the stopper to the power source which is a source of AC power. | 02-25-2016 |
20160037989 | LIGHTED VACUUM NOZZLE - A vacuum accessory tool that includes a nozzle body having a first end and a second, spaced apart end and at least one light emitting element that emits light that will illuminate a surface to be cleaned by the accessory tool is described. | 02-11-2016 |
20160037988 | LOW PROFILE FILTER FOR VACUUM CLEANERS - A vacuum cleaner having a power head, a collection drum, and a filter. The filter of the present invention is of rectangular cross section about the vertical axis, but is curved away from the power head under the blower along at least one horizontal axis. | 02-11-2016 |
20160037985 | VACUUM NOZZLE WITH INTEGRATED LIGHT - A vacuum accessory tool that includes a nozzle body having a first end and a second, spaced apart end and at least one light emitting element that emits light that will illuminate a surface to be cleaned by the accessory tool is described. The light emitting element is protected by a protective housing that protects the element when the tool is inserted into areas during cleaning, yet still allows the light to illuminate surfaces during operation. | 02-11-2016 |
20160022102 | Upright Vacuum Cleaner - An upright vacuum cleaner with one or more features, such as a top opening rigid container, a headlight, a replaceable power cord a motor housing suspended within the vacuum to reduce noise and/or vibration a clutch assembly with a RPM sensor, and/or one or more filter plates to improve airflow. | 01-28-2016 |
20160020547 | HIGH-PRESSURE HERMETIC TERMINAL - A hermetic power terminal feed-through for use in high-pressure applications is disclosed as including a fused pin subassembly comprising a tubular reinforcing member and a current-conducting pin. The pin passes through the tubular reinforcing member and is fixed thereto by a fusible sealing material to create a hermetic seal. The fused pin subassembly is then joined and hermetically sealed to a terminal body. A method for manufacturing the high-pressure hermetic power terminal feed-through is also disclosed. | 01-21-2016 |
20150362207 | HVAC System Mode Detection Based On Control Line Current - A monitoring system for monitoring a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system of a building includes a monitoring server. The monitoring server is configured to receive an aggregate control line current value from a monitoring device. The aggregate control line current value represents a total current flowing through control lines used by a thermostat to command the HVAC system. The monitoring server is configured to determine a commanded operating mode of the HVAC system in response to the aggregate control line current value. Operating modes of the HVAC system include at least one of an idle mode and an ON mode. The monitoring server is configured to analyze a system condition of the HVAC system based on the determined commanded operating mode. | 12-17-2015 |
20150330650 | HVAC SYSTEM AIR FILTER DIAGNOSTICS AND MONITORING - A system and method for monitoring a heating, ventilation, or air conditioning (HVAC) system of a building is provided. A monitoring server, located remotely from the building, receives operating parameter data from a monitoring device at the building that measures an operating parameter of the HVAC system. The monitoring server generates a plurality of data clusters from the operating parameter data, each data cluster corresponding to operating parameter data generated during steady-state operation of the HVAC system. The monitoring server calculates an average operating parameter value for each data cluster. The monitoring server calculates normalized operating parameter values based on normalizing the average operating parameter values for the data clusters over a predetermined normalization time period. The monitoring server compares the normalized operating parameter values with a threshold. The monitoring server determine whether an air filter of the HVAC system needs to be replaced based on the comparison and generates a notification based on the determination indicating that the air filter needs to be replaced. | 11-19-2015 |
20150330632 | GAS FLOW CONTROLLER FOR USE IN GAS FIRED APPARATUS - A gas flow controller for use in a gas fired apparatus includes an actuator, a pilot valve operably connected to the actuator, a main burner valve, and a flow controller valve operably connected to the actuator. The pilot valve is moveable from a closed position to an open position by actuation of the actuator to provide selective fluid communication between a gas inlet and a first fluid chamber. The main burner valve provides selective fluid communication between the first fluid chamber and a main burner outlet. The flow controller valve is moveable from a closed position to an open position by actuation of the actuator to provide selective fluid communication between the gas inlet and a back side of the main burner valve to maintain the main burner valve in a closed position when the pilot valve is in the open position. | 11-19-2015 |
20150323215 | HVAC SYSTEM AND ENVELOPE GRADING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A grading method includes: determining a first heat flux for a first period of a run cycle of a HVAC system of a building, wherein the HVAC system is in an OFF state during the first period of the run cycle; determining a second heat flux for a second period of the run cycle of the HVAC system, wherein the HVAC system is in an ON state during the second period of the run cycle; determining a third heat flux for the run cycle based on a sum of the first heat flux and the second heat flux; determining a power consumption of the HVAC system during the run cycle; determining a first grade for the HVAC system based on the third heat flux of the run cycle and the power consumption during the run cycle; and generating a displayable report, the report including the first grade of the HVAC system. | 11-12-2015 |
20150323211 | HVAC SYSTEM GRADING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A first tracking module increments a first period of time when a heating, ventilation, or air conditioning (HVAC) system of a building is ON during a predetermined period of time. A second tracking module increments a second period of time when, during the predetermined period of time: (i) the HVAC system is ON and (ii) a split temperature of the HVAC system is outside of a temperature range of the HVAC system. A grade determination module determines a grade of the HVAC system for the predetermined period of time based on both the first period of time and the second period of time. A reporting module generates a displayable report for the HVAC system for the predetermined period of time. The report includes the grade of the HVAC system for the predetermined period of time. | 11-12-2015 |
20150320281 | DISPLAY FOR VACUUM CLEANER - A vacuum appliance | 11-12-2015 |
20150302414 | CONTRACTOR DISPATCH SERVICE - A system and method include a monitoring system that monitors operating parameters of an HVAC system at a customer location and that generates an alert or service request based on the operating parameters. A server is in communication with the monitoring system and receives the alert or service request from the monitoring system, compares the alert or service request to a listing of alerts and service requests covered under a service plan associated with the HVAC system at the customer location, determines whether the alert or service request is covered under the service plan based on the comparison, and schedules and dispatches a contractor to perform service under the service plan when the alert or service request is covered under the service plan. | 10-22-2015 |
20150302238 | Method and Apparatus for Surveying with a Feature Location - Methods are provided for conducting surveys of regions of interest, points of interest, and objects of interest. The methods typically involve using a survey instrument with programmed logic. The programmed logic may include one or more base of knowledge in an electronically accessible format, and may include statistical analysis software. The survey instrument generally includes a display and one or more sensors. The sensors may include a visible image or an infrared image sensor. The program logic may be used to guide an operator through a survey. | 10-22-2015 |
20150270751 | ROTORS WITH SEGMENTED MAGNET CONFIGURATIONS AND RELATED DYNAMOELECTRIC MACHINES AND COMPRESSORS - A rotor for a dynamoelectric machine includes a rotor core having an outer periphery and at least a first set of magnets positioned within the outer periphery of the rotor core. The first set of magnets includes at least two block magnets and an arc magnet. The block magnets have a substantially parallel magnetization pattern and the arc magnet has a substantially radial magnetization pattern. The arc magnet has a concave surface facing the outer periphery of the rotor core. The first set of magnets defines a pole of the rotor. Rotors with other magnet configurations, and dynamoelectric machines and compressors incorporating such rotors, are also disclosed. | 09-24-2015 |
20150251921 | FOOD WASTE COLLECTOR SYSTEM WITH TREATMENT OF RECIRCULATING WATER TO REDUCE BACTERIA LEVELS - A food waste collector system includes a tank and a pump that recirculates water by pumping it from the tank and back into the tank, and a bacteria treatment method and system that treats the recirculating water to reduce bacteria. In an aspect, the bacteria treatment includes irradiation of recirculating water by ultraviolet light to sterilize bacteria. In an aspect, the bacteria treatment includes killing bacteria in the recirculating water with oxidizers. In an aspect, the bacteria treatment includes killing bacteria in the recirculating water with ozone. In an aspect, the food waste collector system includes an ultraviolet (UV) tube holder in which one or more UV tubes are disposed and through which the recirculating water is pumped. In an aspect, the UV tube holder has an inner wall surface with a catalytic surface coating that in conjunction with the UV light provides an oxidation process that generates the oxidizers. | 09-10-2015 |
20150223658 | Systems, Methods, and Apparatuses for Controlling the Power Supply of a Vacuum Cleaner Motor - Applicant has created systems, methods, and apparatuses for controlling the power supply of a vacuum cleaner motor. The systems and apparatuses include pressure taps to detect a pressure differential within a vacuum cleaner, a float that adjusts depending on an amount of liquid stored, and a power switch that toggles based on the pressure differential created by the position of the float. Alternatively, the float can be replaced by an air chamber so that the pressure differential is created by liquid rising above the volume of air trapped in the chamber. The method can include interrupting the current supplied to an electrical circuit of a power switch based upon a pressure differential created within the vacuum. By controlling the power supply to a vacuum cleaner motor based on a pressure differential created by the amount of liquid stored within the vacuum cleaner, the vacuum cleaner can automatically disable the vacuum cleaner's motor as the vacuum approaches its maximum liquid capacity. | 08-13-2015 |
20150220091 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING WATER HEATERS - A water heater includes a storage tank, a sensor configured to measure a temperature of water in the storage tank, a burner configured to heat the water in the storage tank, and a controller communicatively coupled to the sensor and the burner. The controller is configured to initiate a call for heat when the measured temperature reaches a trigger temperature, wherein the trigger temperature is a differential amount less than a set-point temperature, calculate a reduced activation time when the call for heat results in a predetermined number of calls for heat occurring within a predetermined time period, and control the burner based on the reduced activation time. | 08-06-2015 |
20150219699 | Bad Ground and Reverse Polarity Detection for HVAC Controls - In exemplary embodiments, HVAC controls and corresponding error detection methods are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, an HVAC control generally includes a digital input configured to receive a digital signal, an analog input configured to receive an analog signal, and an error indicator. The control is configured to receive a neutral signal at the analog input, determine a voltage of the neutral signal with respect to earth ground, and operate the error indicator to indicate a normal state if the voltage is below a first threshold, a bad ground state if the voltage is between the first threshold and a second threshold, and a reverse polarity state if the voltage is above the second threshold. | 08-06-2015 |
20150204558 | Selectively Connecting a Climate Control System Controller With More Than One Destination Server - Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of controllers and methods for controlling a climate control system. In an exemplary embodiment, a climate control system controller for controlling operation of a climate control system of a structure generally includes a processor, memory, and network interface configured to provide the climate control system controller with wireless network connectivity. The climate control system controller is selectively connectable, in response to user input, with each of a plurality of destination servers remote from the structure. | 07-23-2015 |
20150187050 | HVAC Controls or Controllers Including Alphanumeric Displays - Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of controls for heating, ventilation, and/or air conditioning systems. In an exemplary embodiment, a control for a heating, ventilation, and/or air conditioning system includes an alphanumeric display and one or more input device. A processor of the control is configured to receive a user input through the input device(s), and in response to the user input, reorient a display of a message relative to the alphanumeric display. | 07-02-2015 |
20150184921 | HEAT PUMP CONTROLLER WITH USER-SELECTABLE DEFROST MODES AND REVERSING VALVE ENERGIZING MODES - A heat pump controller for use in a heat exchange system includes a computing device and a user interface coupled to the computing device. The computing device is configured to initiate a defrost cycle based on one of a plurality of user-selectable defrost modes, and the user interface is configured to display the user-selectable defrost modes and receive a user selection corresponding to one of the user-selectable defrost modes. | 07-02-2015 |
20150184920 | HEAT PUMP CONTROLLER CONFIGURABLE BETWEEN A PLURALITY OF DEFROST MODES - A heat pump controller for use in a heat exchange system includes a first input connector, a second input connector, and a computing device. The first input connector is configured to be coupled to a first sensor for receiving a first signal from the first sensor. The second input connector is configured to be selectively coupled to a second sensor for selectively receiving a second signal from the second sensor. The computing device is configured to initiate a defrost cycle, and is selectively configurable between a plurality of defrost modes including a first defrost mode and a second defrost mode. In the first defrost mode the computing device initiates the defrost cycle based on the first signal received from the first sensor and a period of time. In the second defrost mode, the computing device initiates the defrost cycle based on at least the second signal received from the second sensor. | 07-02-2015 |
20150176854 | HVAC Communication Bus Decoders and Corresponding Methods - In exemplary embodiments, HVAC communication bus decoders and corresponding methods are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, an HVAC communication bus decoder includes a control circuit having an input for coupling to an HVAC communication bus and one or more relays each having an output for coupling to a legacy HVAC system monitoring device. The control circuit is configured to read one or more messages transmitted on the HVAC communication bus, decode the one or more messages to determine a desired mode of operation called for by a thermostat connected to the HVAC communication bus, and energize at least one of the one or more relays to emulate a corresponding legacy HVAC signal representing the mode of operation called for by the thermostat to be provided to the legacy HVAC monitoring device. | 06-25-2015 |
20150145457 | Control Circuits for Motors and Related Methods - Control circuits and related methods are provided. One exemplary control circuit includes a solid state switching device for coupling to a first tap of a motor and a control device coupled to the solid state switching device. The control device is configured to switch the solid state switching device to apply a signal to the first tap in response to a demand for operation of the motor at a second parameter to operate the motor at the second parameter. The control device is also configured to switch the solid state switching device to apply a signal to the first tap in response to a demand for operation of the motor at a first parameter to operate the motor at the first parameter. | 05-28-2015 |
20150134118 | Driving Controls and Diagnostic Methods for Communicating Motors - In exemplary embodiments, driving controls and diagnostic methods are disclosed for communicating motors. In an exemplary embodiment, a method generally includes generating a signal for sending to a communicating motor using transmitting hardware in a driving control, detecting the generated signal before it is transmitted to the communicating motor using a transmit sense circuit in the driving control, and analyzing the detected signal to verify whether the transmitting hardware in the driving control is operational. | 05-14-2015 |
20150122900 | DC VOLTAGE-LIMITING CIRCUITS AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND THERMOSTATS INCLUDING DC VOLTAGE-LIMITING CIRCUITS - A DC voltage-limiting circuit generally includes first, second, and third transistors. The first transistor is connected between a voltage input terminal and a voltage output terminal. The first transistor has a collector connected to the voltage input terminal, an emitter connected to the voltage output terminal, and a base connected to the voltage input terminal via a first resistor. The second transistor has a base connected to the voltage input terminal via a first voltage regulator and a second resistor, a collector connected to the base of the first transistor, and an emitter connected to the voltage output terminal. The third transistor has a collector connected to the base of the first transistor via a third resistor, an emitter grounded, and a base connected to the voltage output terminal via a second voltage regulator and a fourth resistor. | 05-07-2015 |
20150115045 | Determining Power Stealing Capability of a Climate Control System Controller - Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of systems and methods for determining a power stealing capability of a climate control system controller. In an exemplary embodiment, a controller for use in a climate control system generally includes a capacitor chargeable by current flowing through an off-mode load of the climate control system. A voltage detect circuit detects a voltage across the capacitor. The controller includes a timer for determining a charge time of the capacitor from a first specific voltage to a second specific voltage based on input from the voltage detect circuit. The controller determines a resistance of the off-mode load based on the charge time and, based on the determined resistance, determines a level of current for power stealing through the off-mode load. | 04-30-2015 |
20150083838 | Magnetically Activated Switch For Food Waste Disposer - An apparatus for selectively activating a food waste disposer for a sink may include a housing and an activation member. The housing may include a switch and a first magnet. The first magnet may be movable relative to the housing and the switch between first and second positions. Movement of the first magnet from the second position to the first position may cause corresponding movement of the switch from an off-position in which electrical current is prevented from reaching a motor of the disposer to an on-position allowing electrical current to the motor. The activation member may include a second magnet and is receivable in a tubular member through which waste drains and positionable relative to the tubular member to place the second magnet in proximity to the first magnet to generate a repulsive magnetic force that moves the first magnet between the first and second positions. | 03-26-2015 |
20150055271 | AC Line Powered Relay Driving Circuits - Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of relay drive circuits. In an exemplary embodiment, a relay drive circuit generally includes a first diode, a second diode, a third diode, a first transistor, a second transistor, a first capacitor, and a second capacitor. The relay drive circuit is operable to transform an AC voltage to a DC voltage, and then use the DC voltage to control on/off of the relay. | 02-26-2015 |
20150047146 | BACKPACK VACUUM CLEANER - A vacuum cleaner is described that includes an elongated vacuum body, an optional battery-pack attached to the bottom end of the elongated vacuum body, and a removable backpack assembly with shoulder and waist straps attachable directly to the elongated vacuum body. The shape of the elongated vacuum body is such that the center of gravity of the body is shifted close to the body of the vacuum appliance user, allowing for greater freedom of movement during use. The vacuum appliance also includes exhaust air vents positioned to reduce the noise output of the vacuum appliance as perceived by the user during use. | 02-19-2015 |
20150040343 | VACUUM FILTER BAG MOUNTING APPARATUS AND METHODS OF OPERATION - The present invention is an improved vacuum filter or collection bag assembly for vacuum cleaners and other appliances, particularly upright vacuum cleaners. The filter bag assembly includes a filter bag with a sealing and locking rim assembly which mates with a section of the vacuum filter housing, so as to ensure proper seating and minimization of dust and dirt escaping from the filter bag during vacuum operation. The assembly may also include a gasket ring for additional sealing. | 02-12-2015 |
20150039153 | Controllers and Methods of Control of Water Heaters - A water heater that is controlled by a plurality of offsets depending on at least one of predicted current usage of the water heater and preset user set point temperature results in energy saving without affecting user comfort and eliminates the need for additional hardware. The average temperature of the water is lower than in the case where a single preset offset is adjusted, thereby resulting in energy saving. | 02-05-2015 |
20140373306 | SLIDE OUT DRUM WITH FILTER FOR A WET/DRY VACUUM APPLIANCE - A wet and dry vacuum cleaner system is disclosed, wherein the system includes a debris container having an inlet and outlet, a filter support having a filter and being adapted to situate at least a portion of the filter within the container and intermediate between the inlet and outlet, a vacuum unit adapted to be coupled to the container, and a housing. A wet/dry vacuum appliance system is also disclosed, which includes means for housing a vacuum unit, means for slidably receiving a debris container, and means for releasably holding the container in sealed engagement with the vacuum unit. In addition, methods of removing debris from such a vacuum cleaner and vacuum appliance systems are described. | 12-25-2014 |
20140367963 | Threaded Sink Flange Assembly For Installation Of A Food Waste Disposer To A Sink - A threaded sink flange assembly for a food waste disposer includes a threaded sink flange, a sink flange nut, an upper mounting flange and a retainer. The threaded sink flange has a tubular body portion that has an externally threaded portion and a plurality of radially outwardly projecting mounting ledges with gaps therebetween. The sink flange nut is internally threaded with threaded portions interspersed with gaps, there being at least a gap corresponding to each mounting ledge. The upper mounting flange is annular having a top ring with a plurality of radially inwardly extending mounting projections. The mounting projections are received on the mounting ledges when the upper mounting flange is assembled to the threaded sink flange. A plurality of flanges extend from a bottom of an outer wall of the upper mounting flange with each flange having a radially outwardly extending inclined mounting ramp. | 12-18-2014 |
20140350733 | Facilitating Installation of a Controller and/or Maintenance of a Climate Control System - Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of apparatus and methods for facilitating installation and/or connection of controllers such as thermostats. In an exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for facilitating installation and/or connection of a controller in a climate control system generally includes a communication device configured to execute software instructions to receive user input describing a wire arrangement where the controller is to be installed for use in the climate control system. Based on the user input, the communication device identifies a configuration of the climate control system and specifies wiring connections between the wire arrangement and controller. | 11-27-2014 |
20140339345 | Counter Top Food Waste Disposer - A counter top food waste disposer in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure includes a food conveying section, a motor section and a grind and discharge section disposed between the food conveying section and the motor section. In an aspect, the food waste disposer also includes a discharge area in which a container is removably receivable. When the container is received in the discharge area, during operation of the food waste disposer food waste is dischargeable from a discharge outlet of a discharge section into the container. In an aspect, a hose is removably receivable in the discharge area when the container is not present and food waste is discharged through the hose when it is received in the discharge area. In an aspect, the food waste disposer includes a water reservoir from which water can be introduced into the food waste disposer. | 11-20-2014 |
20140329461 | Provisioning a Wireless-Capable Device for a Wireless Network - Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of apparatus and methods for provisioning a wireless-capable device for a wireless network. In an exemplary embodiment, a wireless-capable device, e.g., a thermostat, generally includes provisioning component(s) configured to receive from, and without a wired connection to, a wireless user device at least a network profile for provisioning the wireless-capable device for a wireless network. The provisioning components have no capability to receive the network profile through the wireless network. The provisioning component(s) are further configured to provide information for provisioning control of the wireless-capable device to a user account accessible through the wireless network. | 11-06-2014 |
20140319252 | Food Waste Disposer With Stamped Swivel Lugs - A food waste disposer includes a food conveying section, a motor section and a grind and discharge section. The grind section includes a grind mechanism having a stationary grind ring and a rotatable shredder plate assembly that rotates within the stationary grind ring to grind food waste. The rotatable shredder plate assembly is rotated by a motor of the motor section. The rotatable shredder plate assembly includes a rotatable shredder plate having a plurality of stamped metal swivel lugs fastened thereon. Each lug includes a base and a face member at a radially outer end extending vertically upward from the base. The face member includes a grind face that bends radially inwardly with a rounded leading vertical outer edge. The base of each lug has a leading edge with a sharp lower edge. | 10-30-2014 |
20140312129 | Power Stealing for a Wireless-Enabled Thermostat - Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of apparatus, systems and methods for power stealing for a wireless-enabled thermostat. In an exemplary embodiment, a wireless-enabled thermostat generally includes a control having a wireless network interface that intermittently connects the thermostat in a wireless network in accordance with a duty cycle, the duty cycle having a connect time in which the thermostat is connected in the wireless network and a sleep time in which the thermostat is not connected in the wireless network. A power stealing circuit of the thermostat steals power through an “on-mode” load of a climate control system to charge a capacitor or other energy storage device to provide the power for the wireless network interface. The control adjusts at least the sleep time in accordance with a time for charging the capacitor or other energy storage device to a threshold voltage. | 10-23-2014 |
20140312127 | Battery Power Management in a Thermostat With a Wireless Transceiver - A thermostat includes a controller for controlling the thermostat, a battery supplying power for the thermostat, and a wireless transceiver for receiving control information from a remote device and for transmitting information to the remote device. The controller sets a default time schedule for enabling the wireless transceiver. | 10-23-2014 |
20140306042 | Dry Food Waste Disposal System - A dry food waste disposal system has a food waste disposer having a grind and discharge section having a grind mechanism having a stationary grind ring and a rotatable shredder plate rotated by a motor. The dry food waste disposal system also includes a storage tank that includes a sensor that senses how full the storage tank is, a discharge line coupling a discharge outlet of the food waste disposer to the storage tank, and a controller that disables the food waste disposer off in response to the sensor sensing that the storage tank is full. | 10-16-2014 |
20140299670 | Current Control for Power Stealing - A thermostat for use in a climate control system has a power stealing circuit that provides power from a voltage supply through a load of the climate control system when the load is in an “off” mode. The power stealing circuit has a current limiting circuit that provides a maximum level of instantaneous current predetermined to be a threshold beyond which the load is switched to an “on” mode. | 10-09-2014 |
20140299297 | SYSTEMS AND APPARATUSES FOR COOLING A VACUUM DEVICE - Applicants have created vacuum systems and apparatuses for cooling a vacuum device. The apparatus can include a cooling device adapted to couple with a vacuum device, at least one cooling device air inlet, and a cooling device outlet. The air flows from the air inlets to the air outlet and combines with air disposed within the vacuum device. The system can include the cooling device, a vacuum housing, and a vacuum interface such that air flowing from the air inlets to the outlet flows from the vacuum interface to the vacuum housing biased with a negative pressure area. As a result, the air originating from the air inlets cools the air disposed within the vacuum housing upon mixing and the vacuum device cools, thus increasing the vacuum device's performance. Furthermore, heat transfer from the vacuum device to an operator reduces, thus improving the productivity and comfort of the operator. | 10-09-2014 |
20140299289 | HEAT-PUMP SYSTEM WITH REFRIGERANT CHARGE DIAGNOSTICS - A heat-pump circuit may include an indoor heat exchanger, an outdoor heat exchanger, a compressor adapted to circulate a working fluid between the indoor and outdoor heat exchangers, and an expansion device disposed between the indoor and outdoor heat exchangers. A monitor for the heat-pump system may include a return-air temperature sensor, a supply-air temperature sensor, and a processor. The return-air temperature sensor may be adapted to measure a first air temperature of air upstream of the indoor heat exchanger. The supply-air temperature sensor may be adapted to measure a second air temperature of air downstream of the indoor heat exchanger. The processor may be in communication with the return-air temperature sensor and the supply-air temperature sensor. The processor may be programmed to determine a working-fluid-charge condition of the heat-pump system based on the first and second air temperatures. | 10-09-2014 |
20140298612 | FILTER CAGE FOR WET/DRY VACUUMS - Vacuum cleaner filters, in particular replaceable vacuum cleaner filters suitable for both dry and wet/dry type vacuum cleaners are disclosed, as well as systems incorporating the use of such filters and methods for their use. The filters include a plurality of adjacently positioned pleats arranged in a closed circumferential, cylindrically-shaped path, a top end cap having a central orifice capable of constricting a post on a vacuum filter cage, and optionally a molded end ring oppositely-spaced from the top end cap for engagement with the motor housing of a vacuum cleaner. | 10-09-2014 |
20140290775 | HOT WATER DISPENSER FAUCET WITH THERMAL BARRIER - A faucet for a hot water dispenser has a valve metal body made of a metal having a thermal conductivity of 50 W/mK. A tube extends through a passage in the valve body and is coupled to a hot water line that extends into a hot water tank of the hot water dispenser and to a discharge outlet coupled to a discharge line that extends through a discharge spout. There is an air gap between a surface of the valve body surrounding the passage and the tube. The tube in conjunction with the air gap reduces heat transfer from the hot water flowing through the tube to the valve body. In an aspect, the tube is a plastic tube. In a variation, there is no air gap between the plastic tube and the valve body. | 10-02-2014 |
20140285222 | Devices for Measuring Voltage of a Power Supply, Detection Devices, and Temperature Controllers - Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of devices for measuring voltage of a power supply. Also disclosed are exemplary embodiments of detection devices and temperature controllers comprising such devices for measuring voltage of a power supply. In exemplary embodiments, a device for measuring the voltage of a power supply generally includes a resistor, a capacitor, and a control unit. One end of the capacitor is connected with the resistor, while the other end of the capacitor is connected to ground. The control unit is connected with the power supply. The control unit includes a comparator connected with the capacitor, a reference power supply connected with the comparator, a timer, and a computing unit. | 09-25-2014 |
20140279571 | CONTRACTOR LOCATOR AND DISPATCH SERVICE - A system and method for a contractor locator and dispatch service is provided. A customer device is associated with an HVAC system at a customer location. Contractor devices are each associated with a contractor at a contractor location and stores contractor information including contractor location data corresponding to the contractor location and contractor availability data corresponding to an availability of the associated contractor. A server receives a service request for the HVAC system from the customer device and contractor information from each of the contractor devices. The server applies selection criteria to the received contractor information and determines potential contractors for the service request based on the selection criteria. The customer device receive the contractor information for the potential contractors, displays corresponding contractor information, and receives a selection indicating a designated contractor from the potential contractors to perform the service request for the HVAC system. The server notifies the contractor device for the designated contractor of the selection. | 09-18-2014 |
20140278681 | CONTRACTOR SCHEDULING AND COMPONENT PURCHASING SERVICE - A system and method includes a database storing faults, each fault having an indicator corresponding to whether the associated fault is designated for self-maintenance. A monitoring system is in communication with the database and monitors operating parameters of an HVAC system at a customer location, detects or predicts a fault in the HVAC system, determines whether the fault is designated for self-maintenance, and communicates an alert corresponding to the fault to a customer device. When the alert received by the customer device indicates that the fault in the HVAC system is designated for self-maintenance, the customer device displays an identification of a replacement component associated with maintenance for the fault and a first interface to receive at least one of a first selection for a contractor to deliver the replacement component and a second selection for purchasing the replacement component through a commercial retailer. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277762 | Energy Management Based on Location - Systems and methods of providing climate control and/or energy management in a structure having a networking thermostat. In some example embodiments the network is used to monitor a geographic location of a user device associated with a user of the structure. The monitoring may be performed to determine the location relative to a destination located apart from the structure. The network is used to control a set point of the thermostat based on the location. Additionally or alternatively, the monitoring may be performed to determine time period(s) during which the structure is unoccupied and the thermostat is set at a first set point. Energy savings that could have been realized by changing the first set point to a second set point are estimated and provided to the user. | 09-18-2014 |
20140266755 | HVAC SYSTEM REMOTE MONITORING AND DIAGNOSIS - A monitoring system for a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system of a building includes a monitoring device installed at the building, a monitoring server located remotely from the building, and a review server. The monitoring device measures an aggregate current supplied to components of the HVAC system and transmits current data based on the measured aggregate current. The monitoring server receives the transmitted current data and, based on the received current data, assesses whether failures have occurred in first and second components of the HVAC components. The monitoring server generates a first advisory in response to determining that the failure has occurred in the first component. The review server provides the first advisory to a technician for review and, in response to the technician verifying that the failure has occurred, transmits a first alert. | 09-18-2014 |
20140264114 | Solenoid Valve Having One-Piece Collar-Tube - According to various aspects, exemplary embodiments are disclosed of a one-piece collar-tube for a valve assembly. Also disclosed are valve assemblies that include a one-piece collar-tube. Also disclosed are exemplary embodiments of methods. In an exemplary embodiment, a method generally includes integrally forming a collar portion and a tube portion for a valve assembly from a non-magnetic material as a single piece having a monolothic construction. | 09-18-2014 |
20140262134 | HVAC SYSTEM REMOTE MONITORING AND DIAGNOSIS - An apparatus for monitoring a heating, ventilation, or air conditioning (HVAC) system includes an indoor unit monitor module electrically connected to a current sensor and first and second refrigerant temperature sensors. The current sensor generates a first current signal based on aggregate current consumed by components of an indoor unit of the HVAC system. The refrigerant temperature sensors generate first and second refrigerant temperature signals, respectively, based on measured temperatures of refrigerant circulating within the HVAC system. The indoor unit monitor module receives, from a secondary monitoring module, a second current signal based on aggregate current consumed by components of an outdoor unit of the HVAC system. The indoor unit monitor module transmits data to a remote server to assess whether a failure has occurred or is likely to occur in the components of the HVAC system. The data is based on the current signals and the refrigerant temperature signals. | 09-18-2014 |
20140250399 | Scheduling Systems - An exemplary embodiment includes a scheduling system for scheduling operation of a device. The scheduling system generally includes a touch screen based user interface, a selection module, a storage memory, and a communication network. The touch screen based user interface displays a plurality of scrollable, selectable options corresponding to different settings, different modes of operation of the device to be scheduled, and different time zones for which the system is to be scheduled. The touch screen based user interface further displays the different settings and the different modes of operation of the device for the different time zones as selected by a user to define a particular operation schedule for the device. The selection module facilitates navigation and selection of the options from the plurality of scrollable, selectable options displayed on the touch screen based user interface for selectively defining a particular operation schedule for the device. | 09-04-2014 |
20140246615 | Systems and Apparatuses for a Simplified Solenoid Valve Assembly - Applicants have created systems and apparatuses for a simplified solenoid valve assembly adapted to control the flow of a fluid. The apparatus can include an upper component formed as a single manufactured component comprising a body and a core tube and a lower component formed as a single manufactured component comprising a seat insert and a core. The apparatus can further include a coil adapted to regulate an amount of fluid flowing through the apparatus and the upper and lower components can be formed as separate units coupled to one another with a coupler. The system can include the apparatus and a manifold that is adapted to be coupled to the upper component. By forming the upper and lower components as single manufactured components, the resulting simplified solenoid valve assembly can be manufactured with fewer components, with a reduced manufacturing cost and decreased complexity, as compared to traditional valve assemblies. | 09-04-2014 |
20140244048 | System for Remote Control of a Condition at a Site - A system is provided for remote control of at least one operating condition of a site. The system includes a proximity detection module at a residential site, which is configured to receive a communication regarding a location of a location reporting device or a mobile device. The proximity detection module is configured to alter or adjust a current temperature setting for the site based on a distance or location of the location reporting device or mobile device relative to the site. | 08-28-2014 |
20140236362 | Load Reduction Based on Percentage Change in Energy Price - A thermostatic controller generally includes a transceiver configured to receive a signal that includes an energy price rate for a given time period, and an electronic memory device in which one or more energy price rates received by the transceiver are stored. A microprocessor is configured to select the lowest energy price rate received within a given time period for establishing a base energy price rate; determine if the energy price rate for a present time period exceeds the base energy price rate by more than a first percentage or multiplier factor of the base energy price rate; and respond to an energy price rate that exceeds the base energy price rate by more than the first percentage or multiplier factor by transmitting a signal via the transceiver to an energy consuming appliance indicating that the energy consuming appliance should be in an off state and/or to one or more ceiling fans to activate, deactivate and/or change speed of the one or more ceiling fans. | 08-21-2014 |
20140231683 | Systems and Methods for Controlling Multistage Electronic Controlled Gas Valves - Disclosed herein are exemplary embodiments of an electronic control unit for controlling an electronic controlled multistage gas valve (MGV) for adjusting gas flow to a gas fired appliance. In an exemplary embodiment, an electronic control unit generally includes an integrated furnace control (IFC) unit, a multistage gas valve control (MGVC) unit electronically coupled to the IFC unit, and a coil electronically coupled to the MGVC unit. The IFC unit is operable for providing at least one power supply signal over a first communication line and at least one pulse width modulated (PWM) duty cycle signal over a second communication line to the MGVC unit for controlling at least one of energizing and de-energizing of the coil. The electronic controlled MGV is adapted to move in response to a magnetic field generated by the coil. | 08-21-2014 |
20140215750 | Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner with Built-In Dustpan Accessory - Described is a vacuum cleaner, such as a wet/dry vacuum cleaner, having an improved vacuum hose storage assembly and dust pan assembly for use with a vacuum cleaner having a debris collection drum. The integrated pickup port in the dust pan can be formed by the shape of the product its used on or become a separate piece such as used in this design. The advantage of having the design integrated in the vacuum allows the user to pick up debris either collected by a broom or by other means into the collection chamber of the vacuum without having to remove the hose from the storage position and without having to hold the product while in use; freeing the users hands to control the broom or other device to direct additional debris to the vacuum for collection | 08-07-2014 |
20140203674 | ROTOR AND A MOTOR AND COMPRESSOR COMPRISING THE ROTOR - The invention relates to a rotor and a motor and compressor comprising the rotor. The rotor comprising a rotor core defining an outer periphery, a bore concentric with a center of the rotor core, a plurality of magnet slots positioned on the outer periphery, and a plurality of oil holes located radially outward from the center between the bore and the magnet slots, each oil hole includes a body portion and at least one projected portion, the projected portion located radially outward from the body portion and positioned between the body portion and the magnet slots. The projected portion may increase the contact area of the compressor oil with the rotor core to effectively cool down the rotor core. Another advantage of the projected portion may be to further cool down the magnet in the magnet slots. Cooling the magnets may protect against their demagnetization. | 07-24-2014 |
20140201943 | Vacuum Motor Scroll Assembly and Vacuums Including Such an Assembly - A scroll assembly for use with a fluid machine, such as a wet/dry vacuum appliance, is described. Such scroll assembly may include a base portion, a cover portion configured to couple to the base portion, and a cavity between the base portion and the cover portion, wherein the cover portion and the base portion collectively form a labyrinth seal when coupled together, and wherein the labyrinth seal at least partially circumscribes the cavity. A vacuum appliance may include a scroll assembly coupled at least partially therein. A method of exhausting air from a vacuum appliance may include energizing a vacuum motor, thereby drawing air into the scroll assembly, allowing the air to contact a flow splitter, and allowing the air to exit the vacuum appliance. | 07-24-2014 |
20140192180 | INSPECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USE IN UNDERGROUND BORING OPERATIONS - An inspection system and method for use in underground utility construction, especially underground boring operations, is provided. The inspection system generally includes a sensor, a sensor carrier apparatus, and an output device. The sensor is employed to obtain inspection data regarding the condition of a tunnel created in an underground boring operation. The sensor carrier is adapted to incorporate the sensor and connect to means for transporting the sensor through the tunnel. The output device receives an output signal from the sensor corresponding to the inspection data and presents it to an operator for interpretation and/or otherwise documents and/or records the inspection data. | 07-10-2014 |
20140182078 | Vacuum Bypass Vent and Vacuums Incorporating Such Bypass Vents - A vacuum appliance capable of picking up both wet and dry material is described, wherein the vacuum appliance includes an impeller configured to induce liquid into the vacuum appliance, a motor configured to turn the impeller, a restrictor assembly to prevent the liquid from being ingested into the motor, and a bypass vent assembly configured to allow sufficient air to reach the motor in order to keep the motor cool while the restrictor is preventing the liquid from being ingested into the motor. The vacuum appliance also includes a drum configured to retain the liquid and an impeller intake between the impeller and the drum. The restrictor may comprise a float configured to rise with a level of the liquid in the drum and prevent the liquid from entering the impeller intake. The bypass vent assembly may be configured to allow airflow to bypass the restrictor and/or the drum. | 07-03-2014 |
20140168408 | Method and Apparatus for Analyzing Image Data Generated During Underground Boring or Inspection Activities - A system includes a visual inspection system and an image analysis system. The visual inspection system includes an inspection camera that captures images from within an interior of at least one of a utility line and a tunnel for installing a utility line, and a first communication interface that communicates image data corresponding to the images. The image analysis system includes a second communication interface that receives the image data from the visual inspection system, a model adaptation module that modifies a classifier model based on at least one of feedback data and training data, and a classifier module that implements the classifier model to identify a plurality of features in the image data corresponding to defects and that modifies the image data according to the identified plurality of features. The defects include at least one of a cross-bore, a lateral pipe, and an imperfection. | 06-19-2014 |
20140167970 | Refrigerant Charge Level Detection - An exemplary embodiment of a refrigerant charge monitoring system includes first and second sensors. The first sensor is operable for sensing temperature of a liquid refrigerant line that is connected to, within, or extending from an outlet of a condenser. The second sensor is operable for sensing pressure of the liquid refrigerant line. A controller is configured to determine at least one target pressure value from the sensed temperature of the liquid refrigerant line. The controller is configured to determine if the level of refrigerant charge is at, above or below an acceptable level based on a comparison of the sensed pressure of the liquid refrigerant line to the at least one target pressure value. | 06-19-2014 |
20140166357 | CURRENT-CONDUCTING PIN FOR HERMETIC TERMINAL - A current-conducting pin for a hermetic terminal is disclosed. A bimetallic pin includes an exterior jacket of a first metal material and an interior core of a second material. A recess is formed in at least one of the opposite ends of the pin and a sealing material is disposed in the recess and hermetically seals a annular interface between the exterior jacket and the interior core of the pin. | 06-19-2014 |
20140163746 | Apparatus and Method for Determining Load of Energy Consuming Appliances Within a Premises - Disclosed herein are exemplary embodiments of apparatus and methods for determining and/or monitoring load of energy consuming appliances within a premises. In an exemplary embodiment, there is a thermostat for monitoring energy consumption associated with an HVAC unit having a compressor. The thermostat is configured to communicate information on energy consumption and/or information on duration of time of operation associated with the HVAC unit to a user. In another exemplary embodiment, there is a system for monitoring energy consumption for an energy consuming load in a premises that is supplied with power monitored by a utility meter. A gateway is in connection with the controller for enabling connection via the internet to a website. At least one of the gateway and the controller is configured to communicate information on energy consumption associated with the energy consuming load to an energy service provider and/or a consumer. | 06-12-2014 |
20140161648 | Electric Machine - A three-phase, high voltage motor for use in a scroll compressor includes a stator core having an annular rim and a plurality of teeth extending radially inward from the rim. Aluminum windings are wrapped around teeth of the plurality of teeth of the stator core. The windings are spaced 120 electrical degrees from each other. The motor further includes a rotor body that is rotatably mounted inside the stator core and includes an external surface facing the stator core. | 06-12-2014 |
20140154115 | Scroll Compressor Having A Single Phase Induction Motor With Aluminum Windings - A scroll compressor system for compressing a refrigerant, the scroll compressor comprising a single phase motor which includes a stator having a stator core that defines a plurality of slots positioned radially about an interior of the stator core and windings located within the plurality of slots. The windings including a main winding and a start winding and each of the main and start winding are formed from a conducting wire that includes aluminum. The compressor includes a rotor disposed concentrically within the stator, a drive shaft coupled to the rotor, and an orbital scroll member coupled to the drive shaft. The single phase motor, drive shaft, and orbital scroll member located with the shell. | 06-05-2014 |
20140148958 | Universal Apparatus and Method for Configurably Controlling a Heating or Cooling System - A system for controlling the operation of a heating or cooling system includes a system controller, a memory in which system parameter information relating to the heating or cooling system is stored, and a communication device through which the system controller is configured to transmit and receive signals to/from at least one component controller. The system controller is configured to receive via the communication device a data signal from the at least one component controller that includes information relating to operational parameters for at least one system component installed in the heating and cooling system. The system controller is configured to store in the memory the received operational parameters corresponding to the at least one system component. The stored operational parameters may be retrievable for communication to a replacement component controller in the event that the at least one component controller is replaced. | 05-29-2014 |
20140144395 | Water Heater Valves and Controllers and Methods of Mounting the Same - Exemplary embodiments are disclosed of valves and controllers for water heaters. Also disclosed are mounting methods for valves and controllers for water heaters. In an exemplary embodiment, a gas valve and controller are mounted to and/or located at a burner door of a water heater. | 05-29-2014 |
20140134548 | Performing Integrity Checks on Climate Control System Components - Exemplary embodiments are disclosed of a climate control system that includes an igniter and a controller having an igniter relay. The controller senses a current level through the igniter and senses voltage between terminals of a second relay of the controller. In a given one of a plurality of operational phases of the system, the controller is configured to compare the sensed current level and sensed voltage to a current level and voltage associated with a specific condition of the igniter, igniter relay, or second relay in the given phase. Based on a result of the comparing, the controller is configured to distinguish between a failure of one of the relays and a failure of the igniter. | 05-15-2014 |
20140130327 | Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner Leaf Mulcher - An attachment for a utility vacuum appliance, having a housing with an inlet and an outlet, the inlet configured to mate with a hose and the outlet configured to mate with a port of a vacuum appliance; and a mulching assembly within the housing and operable to mulch yard debris as the debris passes from the inlet to the outlet. In another embodiment, the attachment comprises a housing with an inlet and an outlet, the inlet configured to mate with a port of a vacuum appliance; and a mulching assembly within the housing and operable to mulch yard debris as the debris passes from the inlet to the outlet. | 05-15-2014 |
20140127056 | PHASE WINDING AND CONNECTION METHODS FOR THREE PHASE DYNAMOELECTRIC MACHINES - A stator having a first set of phase windings formed by wrapping a conducting wire in a first direction about first, second, and third teeth, a second set of phase windings formed by wrapping, separately in a second direction opposite the first direction, the conducting wire about fourth, fifth, and sixth teeth, a first interconnect wire extending between the winding on the first tooth and the winding on the fourth tooth, a second interconnect wire extending between the winding on the second tooth and the winding on the fifth tooth, a third interconnect wire extending between the winding on the third tooth and the winding on the sixth tooth, and a connection that connects the first, second, and third interconnect wires together. | 05-08-2014 |
20140095696 | EVALUATING UTILIZATION OF ONE OR MORE COMPUTER SYSTEMS - A method of evaluating utilization of one or more computer systems includes monitoring utilization of a computer system for each of a plurality of time periods in a reporting period and, for each time period, assigning a numeric value based on the monitored utilization and a predefined scale of utilization ranges. The method also includes calculating an overall numeric value for the reporting period by combining the numeric values assigned to the plurality of time periods. The overall numeric value represents the utilization of the computer system during the reporting period. Additional methods and related computer systems are also disclosed. | 04-03-2014 |
20140083260 | PIPE WRENCH WITH HOOK SHANK SPACER - A shank spacer member and its attachment to a pipe wrench is described. The shank spacer member prevents contact between a pipe or other work piece and a shank portion of a movable jaw when the pipe is positioned in the wrench. Upon application of torque to the wrench, the member and its placement on the wrench provides increased gripping force by the wrench upon the pipe. | 03-27-2014 |
20140075967 | Climate Control Systems, and Methods Relating Thereto - A climate control system generally includes a conditioning system for controlling air conditions of a space and a drain fitting coupling a condensate drain line to an air circulation unit of the conditioning system. The drain fitting includes multiple sensors configured to detect a water level in the air circulation unit relative to the drain fitting, and to output a signal to a controller indicative of contact with water. The controller is then configured to output a signal to a thermostat of the conditioning system upon determining that the water level is indicative of the drain line being plugged or blocked. The climate control system may also include a remote service provider system that allows remote interaction with the conditioning system. | 03-20-2014 |
20140070036 | MAGNETICALLY ACTIVATED SWITCH ASSEMBLY FOR FOOD WASTE DISPOSER - An apparatus for selectively activating a food waste disposer for a sink may include a housing and an activation member. The housing may include a switch and a first magnet. The first magnet may be movable relative to the housing and the switch between first and second positions. Movement of the first magnet from the second position to the first position may cause corresponding movement of the switch from an off-position in which electrical current is prevented from reaching a motor of the disposer to an on-position allowing electrical current to the motor. The activation member may include a second magnet and is receivable in a tubular member through which waste drains and positionable relative to the tubular member to place the second magnet in proximity to the first magnet to generate a repulsive magnetic force that moves the first magnet between the first and second positions. | 03-13-2014 |
20140061988 | INTEGRATED FOOT VISE AND WRENCH - Tools having provisions associated with a wrench and a vise are described. The tools can include lateral support members extending from the handle that increase stability during use as a vise. The support members can be removed and/or placed in a non-use position when the tool is used as a wrench. The tool can also include support plates that provide a clearance space between a workpiece and a movable jaw of the tool. Various other features of the tools are described. | 03-06-2014 |
20140045369 | Hermetic Terminal With Fully Insulated Direct Wire Connection - A hermetic terminal assembly includes a terminal body and terminal pins extending through the terminal body. The terminal pins each have a first end configured for connection to a power source disposed outside of a hermetic compressor and a second end configured for direct connection to motor windings disposed within hermetic compressor. | 02-13-2014 |
20140045355 | HERMETIC TERMINAL HAVING PIN-ISOLATING FEATURE - A hermetic terminal is disclosed as having a body including an exterior surface and a plurality of openings in the body accommodating a pin extending through each opening that is hermetically sealed and electrically isolated from the body. The terminal also includes a dielectric pin-isolating feature forming a barrier that increases the operative through-air spacing between the pins of the terminal. The power rating for the terminal is thereby increased without increasing the overall size of the terminal. | 02-13-2014 |
20140041142 | Safety Apparatus and System for a Two-Stage Dust Collection Vacuum Device - Described is an apparatus and system for improving the safety of a vacuum device including a first intake cavity, a second intake cavity that can be coupled to a first housing, and a baffle disposed within the first intake cavity to limit the access to the blades of a vacuum pumping device. Alternatively, the apparatus can include a first intake cavity, a second intake cavity, and a baffle. The baffle can be adapted to channel solid particulates to a second intake cavity though a funneling motion. The apparatus can further include an external cover for limiting access to the blades of a vacuum pumping device. The system can include an intake interface, a first housing to receive a pumping device, a second housing device, and a collection unit. The system can further include an apparatus for limiting the access to the blades of a vacuum pumping device. | 02-13-2014 |
20140037394 | DIE HEAD RETAINING MECHANISM - A die head retaining mechanism for installing or removing a die head in a power drive for thread cutting operations is described. The mechanism comprises a cam and follower arrangement with a face gear having at least one locking jaw disposed in a slot provided on the face of the face gear oriented away from the housing. The mechanism also comprises a drive ring having a collection of cam profiles to control the movement of the locking jaws. The mechanism also comprises at least one compression spring disposed in corresponding groove(s) on the face gear. The compression spring is typically preloaded to keep the locking jaws in a locked position. The mechanism also comprises a bearing provided between the housing and the face gear. The bearing is locked in place by a retaining ring. A locking plate, spring washers, and screws are used to secure the assembly of the die head retaining mechanism on the power drive. | 02-06-2014 |
20140036771 | Networked Video Bridge Device - A networked video bridge device includes a data input module that receives at least one raw image data stream from a plurality of data sources. The device further includes a storage module that records the raw image data and temporarily stores the raw image data. A display screen displays the raw image data. The device also includes a user interface module that receives user input data from a user of the networked video bridge device. The device also includes a control module that selectively augments the raw image data based on the user input data. The control module also communicates the augmented image data to a remote image data storage device. | 02-06-2014 |
20140034284 | Interactive Control System for an HVAC System - An interactive system for controlling an HVAC system includes a thermostat for initiating HVAC system operation in a full-capacity or reduced-capacity mode of operation, and a controller for an outside condenser unit having condenser fan and compressor motors. The controller may operate the compressor in a full-capacity or reduced-capacity mode. A controller for an indoor blower unit having a blower fan motor may operate the blower fan motor in a full-capacity or reduced-capacity mode. A communication means is provided for transmitting information between the outside condenser unit controller and indoor blower controller. The indoor blower controller responsively controls blower fan motor operation in a full-capacity or reduced-capacity mode based on the information received from the outdoor unit controller. The outdoor unit controller responsively controls compressor operation in a full-capacity or reduced-capacity mode based on the information received from the indoor blower controller. | 02-06-2014 |
20140027481 | Articulated Backpack Apparatus and System - Described is a load-bearing support apparatus and system including an upper and lower support element adapted to rotate about one or more axes. The support elements can each further include support couplings. The apparatus can further include first and second support elements that can be adapted to bear the weight of a load along vertical and horizontal axes, respectively. The apparatus can include a mounting support element that can include upper and lower load connectors that can further be coupled to the load. The upper and lower load connectors can each be coupled to the upper and lower support couplings, respectively, in a ball-and-socket joint configuration. Because the ball-and-socket joints can create an articulating motion based on an operator's movement, the support apparatus can increase an operator's range of motion resulting in greater comfort and less fatigue while supporting the load. | 01-30-2014 |
20140008289 | Vacuum Appliance Filter Assemblies and Associated Vacuum Systems - Vacuum cleaner filters, in particular replaceable vacuum cleaner filters suitable for both dry and wet/dry type vacuum cleaners are disclosed, as well as systems incorporating the use of such filters and methods for their use. The filters include a plurality of adjacently positioned pleats arranged in a closed circumferential, cylindrically-shaped path, a top end cap having a central orifice capable of constricting a post on a vacuum filter cage, and optionally a molded end ring oppositely-spaced from the top end cap for engagement with the motor housing of a vacuum cleaner. | 01-09-2014 |
20140007642 | DIELESS CRIMPING TOOL - A tool having a selectively positionable latch which governs access to an interior working region of the tool is described. The latch is selectively positionable between a closed position and an open position. For tools having multiple indenters for performing crimping operations, the latch can also include an indenter. | 01-09-2014 |
20140007434 | LARGE ANGULAR DISPLACEMENT ASSEMBLY FOR PRESS TOOLS - A tool head using a scissor style pair of jaws is described. The jaws may be provided with cutting, pressing, crimping, or other functional surfaces. The tool head includes a linearly positionable member which is engaged with the jaws. Upon linear displacement of the member, the jaws are pivotally displaced. | 01-09-2014 |
20140005836 | HVAC Systems, Controls, and Methods Including Switch Mode Power Supplies to Achieve Low Standby Power | 01-02-2014 |
20140002461 | Environmental Controller Displays | 01-02-2014 |
20140000731 | Flow Control Valve Assemblies with Check Valves | 01-02-2014 |
20130345881 | HVAC Controls or Controllers Including Alphanumeric Displays and Push Buttons - Exemplary embodiments are disclosed of a control for an HVAC system. The control has an alphanumeric display, a plurality of two position switches (e.g., push buttons, etc.), and a processor. The processor receives a current user input through at least one of the two position switches and determines a response to the current user input. The determining is performed using one or more previously received user inputs, if any, via one or more of the two position switches. The processor implements the determined response by displaying a message on the alphanumeric display and/or changing an operational parameter of the HVAC system. | 12-26-2013 |
20130334326 | Connecting Split HVAC Systems to the Internet and/or Smart Utility Meters - Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of systems and methods for connecting split HVAC systems (and/or for providing such connectivity) to networks and/or smart meters, thereby allowing a split HVAC system to be controllable via the Internet and/or a smart meter. An exemplary embodiment includes a system for use with a split HVAC system having at least one outdoor unit and at least one indoor unit having a receiver. In this exemplary embodiment, the system comprises a control having connectivity to a network and/or a smart utility meter. An equipment interface module is configured for wireless communication with the receiver of the at least one indoor unit and the control. The equipment interface module is operable for communicating instructions from the control to the receiver of the at least one indoor unit, thereby allowing operation of the at least one indoor unit to be controllable via the network and/or smart utility meter. | 12-19-2013 |
20130333439 | VISE APPARATUS WITH A BENDING FIXTURE - A vise apparatus with a bending fixture is disclosed in which the bending fixture includes a collection of projections on an operative and substantially vertical front face of a holding arrangement of the vise apparatus. The bending fixture supports and enables gravity assisted bending of a workpiece. The vise apparatus promotes bending workpieces with reduced effort and minimizes manufacturing costs. | 12-19-2013 |
20130327840 | Compensating for Sensor Thermal Lag - Exemplary embodiments are disclosed of a method of compensating for thermal lag in a temperature control system. In an exemplary embodiment, a method is performed by a controller of the temperature control system. The method includes receiving a first temperature obtained by a temperature sensing device at an end of a temperature control cycle. A second temperature obtained by the temperature sensing device is received at a pre-defined time after the end of the temperature control cycle. The method includes changing an operational set-point temperature of the temperature control system using a difference between the received temperatures. | 12-12-2013 |
20130312730 | Valves, Pressure Sensing Devices, and Controllers for Heating Appliances - A valve apparatus includes substantially co-aligned first and second valve seats and substantially co-aligned first and second valve members. The first valve member is moveable relative to the first valve seat between at least an open position in which the first valve member is spaced from the first valve seat and a closed position in which the first valve member is seated against the first valve seat. The second valve member is moveable relative to the second valve seat between at least an open position in which the second valve member is spaced from the second valve seat and a closed position in which the second valve member is seated against the second valve seat. An armature is operable for moving the first and second valve members, in response to a magnetic field generated by a coil. | 11-28-2013 |
20130310985 | Capacitive Touchscreens for Thermostats - Exemplary embodiments are disclosed of touchscreen devices for thermostats and other electronic devices. In an exemplary embodiment, a capacitive touchscreen device includes a touchscreen having touch regions. Each touch region is coupled with at least one first capacitor and at least one second capacitor. The second capacitors are connected in parallel and have smaller capacitance than the first capacitors. The capacitive touchscreen device may be configured to be operable in a standby mode in which the second capacitors are charged and an active mode in which the first capacitors are charged. | 11-21-2013 |
20130304260 | Controllers and Methods for Accepting Multiple Different Types of Input Signals - According to various aspects, exemplary embodiments are disclosed of controllers and methods for accepting multiple different types of input signals. One example controller includes an input circuit including first and second input terminals for receiving an input signal and at least one programmable resistor coupled to the first terminal. A processing device is coupled to the input circuit. The processing device is configured to control a resistance of the at least one programmable resistor based on a terminal setting. The terminal setting indicates whether the input signal is a voltage signal, a current signal, or a resistance signal. The processing device is configured to interpret the input signal applied to the processing device via the input circuit. | 11-14-2013 |
20130276722 | Thermal Insulators for Providing a Thermal Break Between the Body and Flange Assembly of a Gas Water Heater Control - According to various aspects, exemplary embodiments are disclosed in which thermal insulation is used to provide a thermal break and/or thermally insulative barrier generally between a body and flange assembly of a gas water heater control. An exemplary embodiment of a valve assembly for a water heater generally includes a flange, a body, and a thermal insulator. The thermal insulator is configured for placement generally between the body and the flange. The thermal insulator has a lower thermal conductivity than the flange and the body. The thermal insulator is operable for inhibiting heat loss from within the storage tank through the valve assembly. | 10-24-2013 |
20130234639 | SENSORLESS LOST/FOUND ROTOR DETECTION FOR PERMANENT MAGNET MOTORS - Various methods of detecting a found rotor, a lost rotor, a locked rotor and a caught rotor after a power disruption using flux estimates are disclosed. Also disclosed are permanent magnet motor controllers and assemblies suitable for performing one or more of these methods. | 09-12-2013 |
20130228633 | Systems and Methods for Power Stealing - A thermostat includes a power stealing circuit selectively configured to provide power to the thermostat and to circuit(s) ancillary to the thermostat from power source(s) external to the thermostat, without requiring a common or neutral connection between the thermostat and the power source(s). Exemplary embodiments also are disclosed of a climate control system that includes such a thermostat. This thermostat can power-steal off of existing load wires (e.g., a W and/or Y terminal, etc.) and can provide power for a continuous backlight and/or other device (e.g., a remote sensor and/or low-power transceiver, etc.). | 09-05-2013 |
20130228194 | Vacuum Filter System and Method with Integrated Filter Cleaning - A filter system for a vacuum cleaner may include an air intake manifold having a tubular air inlet and a tubular perforated filter cage, the filter cage having a first end coupled to the air inlet and a free second end, the air inlet having an outer surface with a seal, a filter agitator coupled to the intake manifold and arranged alongside the filter cage, the filter agitator having a cleaning surface disposed adjacent to the filter cage, and a filter holder having a first end, a longitudinally opposite second end for coupling to a filter, and at least one coupler for removably coupling the filter holder to the filter inlet of the vacuum cleaner. A method of cleaning a vacuum cleaner filter may include coupling the filter holder to the filter inlet and rotating the filter holder so that the filter rotates about the filter cage. | 09-05-2013 |
20130220426 | Method, Apparatus, and System for Controlling the Exhaust of a Vacuum Device - Described is a method, apparatus, and system for controlling the exhaust of a vacuum device including at least two conduits capable of routing air within the vacuum device, at least two baffles, at least two air chambers, and at least two exhaust cavities. The baffles and the air chambers are capable of reducing the turbulence of the routed air. The exhaust cavities are capable of discharging the routed air from the vacuum device as two or more converging air streams thus minimizing any adverse effects on the environment or the operator. The system can further include a diffuser capable of increasing the turbulence of the routed air after the vacuum device discharges the routed air to improve the thermal dissipation of the discharged routed air. The system can further include a mounting device capable of coupling the vacuum device to a vacuum operator for increased portability. | 08-29-2013 |
20130220352 | Speed Control of Variable-Speed Multiple-Phase Motors - Exemplary embodiments or implementations are disclosed of methods, apparatus, and systems for operating motors in variable speed situations. In an exemplary implementation, a method of controlling a variable-speed motor includes defining a control duration as a predetermined number of cycles of a multiple-phase power supply. Each speed in a range of speeds is defined by a corresponding number of the cycles of the control duration. Power is provided to the motor from the power supply at a selected one of the speeds, by enabling input from the power supply for the number of the cycles of the control duration corresponding to the selected speed. | 08-29-2013 |
20130212901 | Apparatus and Methods for Drying Material - Exemplary embodiments or implementations are disclosed of systems for drying materials and control apparatus and methods relating to material drying systems. In an exemplary embodiment, a control apparatus for a material drying system is configured to select one or more heat sources from a plurality of heterogeneous heat sources for drying the material. The selecting is performed based on one or more sensor inputs. The control apparatus controls the selected heat source(s) to provide heat to dry the material. In some configurations, a material drying system operates as a typical heat pump only when more cost-effective auxiliary heat cannot be provided to maintain a drying temperature. | 08-22-2013 |
20130211615 | Relay Switch Control and Related Methods - Exemplary embodiments are disclosed of a relay switch control configured for connection between a power source and a load. The control includes a processor having a clock upon which an operating frequency of the processor is based, and a sealed relay operable by the processor to electrically connect or disconnect the power source and the load. The relay switch control can start power to the load through the relay after a randomized time delay determined by the processor using a value of a counter of the processor. The counter is updated as a function of cycles of the clock. | 08-15-2013 |
20130200168 | SMART ENERGY CONTROLLED WATER HEATER - A smart energy control module for a water heater includes a switching module that receives a voltage supply and outputs the voltage supply to the water heater. A communication module communicates with at least one of an energy meter and an energy network external to the water heater and the control module. The control module is mounted on the water heater. The voltage supply passes at least one of through and adjacent to the control module. The control module determines at least one operating characteristic of the water heater based on the voltage supply and selectively actuates the switching module to turn on and turn off the voltage supply to the water heater in response to the operating characteristic and information received from the at least one of the energy meter and the energy network. | 08-08-2013 |
20130196528 | CONNECTOR BLOCK WITH PARALLEL ELECTRICAL CONNECTION - An external connector block that can be positioned over multiple standard-sized power supply terminals that are secured to the housing of, e.g., a compressor is disclosed. The connector block includes an electrically conductive bridge connecting respective pins of the terminals in parallel. By connecting the terminals in parallel, the connector block increases the maximum allowable operating current of a terminal connection, while still utilizing standard-sized power terminal feed-throughs. As such, the connector block of the present disclosure may enable higher power rated applications without requiring a new power supply terminal design. | 08-01-2013 |
20130193221 | WATER HEATER CONTROL USING EXTERNAL TEMPERATURE SENSOR - A system for controlling a water heater that operates according to a voltage supply includes a temperature sensor, mounted on at least one of a temperature and pressure (T&P) valve of the water heater and a hot water line of the water heater, that generates a temperature signal corresponding to a first temperature of the at least one of the T&P valve and the hot water line. A control module mounted on the water heater includes a switching module that receives the voltage supply and outputs the voltage supply to the water heater. The voltage supply passes at least one of through and adjacent to the control module. The control module determines a second temperature of water within the water heater based on the temperature signal and selectively actuates the switching module to turn on and turn off the voltage supply to the water heater based on the second temperature. | 08-01-2013 |
20130175375 | FOOD WASTE DISPOSER WITH FOOD DEFLECTING HOUSING - A food waste disposer has a food conveying section that receives food waste and water; a grinding section including a grinding mechanism, and a motor section including a motor. The grinding section is disposed between the food conveying section and the motor section. The grinding mechanism includes a stationary grind ring and a rotating shredder plate assembly that rotates in the grind ring to grind food waste to form ground matter that combines with the water to form a slurry. The slurry passes into a discharge area in an upper end bell below the shredder plate assembly. The food conveying section includes a housing having a food waste deflecting band with an angular profile at a lower end of the housing. | 07-11-2013 |
20130164696 | Stepper Motor Gas Valve and Method of Control - A stepper-motor gas valve control is disclosed that includes a main diaphragm in a chamber that controllably displaces a valve relative to an opening in response to changes in pressure, to adjust fuel flow through the valve. A servo-regulator diaphragm is provided to regulate flow to the main diaphragm, to thereby control the rate of fuel flow. A stepper motor is configured to move in a stepwise manner to displace the servo-regulator diaphragm, to control fluid flow to the main diaphragm. A controller mounted on the stepper-motor regulated gas valve control receives and converts an input control signal from a heating system to a reference value between 0 and 5 volts, and selects a corresponding motor step value. The control responsively moves the stepper-motor in a step wise manner to displace the servo-regulator diaphragm and thereby regulates the rate of fuel flow through the valve. | 06-27-2013 |
20130160227 | FEED CONTROL LOCK FOR HAND OPERATED DRAIN CLEANER - A hand operated drain cleaner includes a manually operated rotatable drum and an elongated flexible cable at least partially held in the drum. A portion of the cable extending from the drum has a cable axis, and rotation of the drum rotates the cable portion about the cable axis. A handle is adapted to rotatably support the drum. The handle includes a barrel portion and a handle portion. A feed control device includes a housing having a feed passage axially therethrough for receiving the cable and a trigger for moving the feed control device between a non-actuating position and an actuating position. In the actuating position, a feed control device is pivoted relative to the handle such that the driving mechanism engages the cable thereby inducing axial movement of the cable via rotation of the drum. A locking mechanism is opera operably associated with the feed control device. | 06-27-2013 |
20130145576 | Vacuum Assisted Fur Removal Tool - Described is a self-cleaning vacuum cleaner accessory apparatus, method, and system including a tubular element, a nozzle, and a nozzle housing that can include at least one nozzle housing notch. The apparatus can further include a bristle plate coupled to the nozzle housing. The bristle plate can include at least one bristle and at least one tabular release element to control the movement of at least one bristle plate tab. The at least one bristle plate tab can be coupled to, or decoupled from, the at least one nozzle housing notch to either permit or prohibit the bristle plate's movement with respect to the nozzle housing. The bristle plate can further include a pivot for rotating the bristle plate to invert the at least one bristle's orientation. Once inverted, airflow from a vacuum can remove debris from the bristles before returning the bristle plate to its original orientation. | 06-13-2013 |
20130128922 | Temperature Measuring Devices and Related Methods - Exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein of temperature measuring devices. In an exemplary embodiment, a temperature measuring device includes a temperature sensing means, at least two reference voltage sources, and a reference voltage selection means for selecting one reference voltage source from the at least two reference voltage sources to generate a reference voltage output. The temperature measuring device also includes an A/D converter for converting an analog signal output by the temperature sensing means to a digital signal based on the reference voltage output. The temperature measuring device further includes a temperature calculation means for calculating a temperature to be measured based on the digital signal output by the A/D converter. | 05-23-2013 |
20130125610 | INTEGRAL INSPECTION GAUGE FOR MANUAL CRIMPING TOOL - A tool for crimping at least two members together and confirming that the crimp is acceptable. The tool includes a pair of opposed clamping jaws. Each of the clamping jaws has a crimping surface that contacts at least one of the members when crimping the members together. The tool also includes a pair of opposed arms that move the crimping surfaces of the opposed clamping jaws toward one another to define a crimping position and away from one another to define a release position. The tool also includes a gauge that defines a first size determining member that allows receipt of the members crimped together and a second size determining member that rejects receipt of the members crimped together. | 05-23-2013 |
20130081223 | Vacuum Appliance with Adjustable Tool Support System and Method of Use - A tool assembly for a vacuum appliance, such as a wet/dry vacuum cleaner, is described, wherein the tool assembly may include a frame, a mount configured to couple the frame to the appliance, a pivot, an actuator configured to support the frame in one or more positions, and a tool coupled to the frame. The assembly may also include a biasing device between the pivot and an end of the frame, and may be disposed in one or more positions relative to a vacuum surface. Also described is a vacuum appliance system that can include a debris collector, a power head assembly, a base, and a tool assembly. Such a vacuum appliance system can also include a main wheel assembly and a plurality of optional main wheel assembly mounting locations. The system may further include a quick-release filter cage coupled to the power head assembly. | 04-04-2013 |
20130055862 | PORTABLE COMPACT THREADING MACHINE - A powered threading machine is described. The threading machine is compact and portable. The threading machine includes a tube frame having a rearward wheel assembly and an extendable handle at the front of the machine. A particular sump configuration is used to prevent loss of cutting oil during operation and transport of the machine. | 03-07-2013 |
20130048768 | BATTERY POWERED FOOD WASTE DISPOSER - A food waste disposer includes a food conveying section, a motor section and a grind and discharge section. The grind and discharge section is disposed between the food conveying section and the motor section and includes a grind section and a discharge section. The food conveying section conveys food waste to the grind section. The grind section includes a grind mechanism having a stationary grind ring and a rotating shredder plate assembly that rotates within the stationary grind ring to grind food waste. The rotating shredder plate assembly is rotated by a motor of the motor section. The rotating shredder plate assembly includes a shredder plate and one or more lugs. The food waste disposer has a battery coupled to it that provides power to the motor. In an aspect, the battery is a removable, rechargeable battery pack. | 02-28-2013 |
20130040252 | Apparatus for Indicating Level of Pilot Flame Output - An apparatus is provided for a heating appliance that includes a manually-opened pilot valve that is held in an open position when a sufficient voltage is applied to a valve operator, and a thermocouple that converts heat from a pilot flame into a voltage that is applied to the valve operator. The apparatus includes a voltage measuring circuit that provides an output indicative of a magnitude of the voltage generated by the thermocouple, and a light emitting device. A controller is coupled to the voltage measuring circuit and the light emitting device. The controller is configured to establish, based on the output indicative of the magnitude of the voltage generated by the thermocouple, a switch sequence for switching the light emitting device on and off in a flashing manner, to provide an indication of when the magnitude of the voltage is sufficient to cause the valve operator to hold the gas valve open. | 02-14-2013 |
20130030576 | Load Reduction Based on Percentage Change in Energy Price - A thermostatic controller is configured for curtailing load when energy price rate is high. One or more energy price rates received by a receiver device are stored in an electronic memory. A microprocessor is operable to select from the one or more energy price rates the lowest energy price rate received within a given time period for establishing a base energy price rate. The microprocessor is operable to determine if the energy price rate for a present time period exceeds the base energy price rate by more than a first percentage or multiplier factor of the base energy price rate. In response to an energy price rate that exceeds the base energy price rate by more than the first percentage or multiplier factor, the microprocessor is configured to select a first temperature offset corresponding to the first percentage or multiplier factor and change the set point temperature by the first temperature offset. | 01-31-2013 |
20130015277 | FOOD WASTE DISPOSER WITH PUMPING VANE - A food waste disposer has a food conveying section that receives food waste and water; a grind section including a grind mechanism, and a motor section including a motor. The grind mechanism includes a rotating shredder plate assembly that is rotated in a grind ring to grind food waste to form a slurry of ground food waste and water. The upper end bell has a flat floor and a shredder plate of the rotating shredder plate assembly includes a pumping vane that extends into the discharge channel and occupies at least twenty-percent of a cross-sectional area of the discharge channel. In an aspect, the motor is an induction motor. | 01-17-2013 |
20120318381 | Condensate Liquid Level Sensor and Drain Fitting - A fluid level sensor and drain fitting is provided that includes a fitting body having a first annular end, a second external-threaded end with an opening therein, and a passage extending from the opening to the first annular end. The drain fitting further includes a plurality of sensors forming an array on the second external-threaded end radially spaced around the opening such that at least one sensor is above the centerline of the opening regardless of the rotational position of the fitting. Each of the sensors are configured to provide an output that changes in response to contact with water. The plurality of sensors are configured to detect a water level relative to the opening in the fitting body based on the number of sensors in the array that provide an output indicative of contact with water. | 12-20-2012 |
20120311811 | WET/DRY VACUUM APPLIANCE, DUST FILTRATION ATTACHMENT THEREFORE, AND METHODS OF USE - A wet/dry vacuum assembly is described which includes a powerhead assembly capable of removable attachment to the open upper end of a container, the powerhead assembly including a housing, a motor, a fan, and air inlet, and an air exhaust port; and, a container having an open upper end, a closed lower end, and at least one sidewall there between, the container including a continuous handle member for carrying the container in a suspended position. Also described are water filter attachments having particle diffusing means formed therein, for use with the wet/dry to vacuum assembly for use in dust control when the vacuum assembly is used for vacuuming up fine particulate dust, such as dust generated from sanding drywall joint compound. | 12-13-2012 |
20120260679 | Control of an Expansion Valve Regulating Refrigerant to an Evaporator of a Climate Control System - Systems and methods are provided for controlling an expansion valve of a climate control system evaporator coil. An evaporator coil temperature sensor senses temperature of refrigerant within the evaporator coil near the evaporator coil outlet. A controller determines a control set point based on the refrigerant temperature near the evaporator outlet. The control set point is used to determine a valve opening area to regulate refrigerant flow into the evaporator coil such that temperature of refrigerant at the evaporator coil outlet is within a temperature band having a lower bound within a predetermined range above the liquid-to-vapor transition temperature. | 10-18-2012 |
20120256025 | FOOD WASTE DISPOSER AND MOUNTING FLANGE THEREFOR WITH MIS-INSTALLATION PREVENTION FEATURES - A mounting assembly for a food waste disposer includes a lower mounting flange having mounting tabs that engage with mounting ramps of an upper mounting flange. The lower mounting flange is rotated with its mounting tabs riding on the mounting ramps of the upper mounting flange to bring the upper and lower mounting flanges securely together. The lower mounting flange includes mis-installation prevention features that if all the mounting tabs of the lower mounting flange are not properly engaged with corresponding mounting ramps of the upper mounting flange, at least one of the mis-installation prevention features will interfere with one of the mounting ramps and prevent the lower mounting flange from being rotated. | 10-11-2012 |
20120247340 | Vacuum Appliance Filter Assemblies and Associated Vacuum Systems - Vacuum cleaner filters, in particular replaceable vacuum cleaner filters suitable for both dry and wet/dry type vacuum cleaners are disclosed, as well as systems incorporating the use of such filters and methods for their use. The filters include a plurality of adjacently positioned pleats arranged in a closed circumferential, cylindrically-shaped path, a top end cap having a central orifice capable of constricting a post on a vacuum filter cage, and optionally a molded end ring oppositely-spaced from the top end cap for engagement with the motor housing of a vacuum cleaner. | 10-04-2012 |
20120247288 | DIRECT ACTION POWERED SOIL PIPE CUTTER - A soil pipe cutting tool is described. The tool includes a telescoping housing assembly, a feedscrew in threaded engagement with the housing assembly, and a cutting chain. The cutting tool can be powered by an impact driver. Also described are rotary powered tools. In certain versions, the tools include torque limiting provisions to prevent transfer of excessively high levels of torque to a working end of the tool. Various methods of use are also described. | 10-04-2012 |
20120246866 | Support System Adjustable by Like Motion and Method of Use - A support system may include a holder having a peripheral surface and a slot, a mount having a stop boss adapted to communicate with the peripheral surface, and a shaft coupled with the mount and slot, thereby slideably and rotatably coupling the holder and mount. A method of moving an object coupled to a support system may include supporting the object in a first position by disposing the mount at a start point of a path so that a center of gravity of the holder can be disposed at a first location relative to a pivot, moving the mount toward an end point of the path, which can include allowing the holder to rotate about the pivot, disposing the mount at the end point, and supporting the object in a second position. | 10-04-2012 |
20120234951 | FOOD WASTE DISPOSER WITH RESTRICTED GRIND CHAMBER DISCHARGE - A food waste disposer has a grinding mechanism that improves fineness and speed of grinding food waste, and also controls or meters the size of the comminuted food waste particles that are discharged from the food waste disposer. It does so by utilizing a more aggressive grind ring of the grinding mechanism that includes horizontal shredder elements in addition to openings, and blocking all except the openings in a minor circumferential portion of the grind ring from discharging comminuted food waste and water to a discharge outlet. In an aspect, a resilient seal is used to seal the adapter ring to a housing of an upper end bell of the grinding section and also provide a seal for a rotating shredder plate assembly of the food waste disposer. | 09-20-2012 |
20120234950 | FOOD WASTE DISPOSER WITH SELF-COMPENSATING BEARING ASSEMBLY - A food waste disposer system, including a food conveying section and a motor section. A grinding section is coupled between the food conveying section and the motor section. The motor section includes an electric motor having a rotor. The rotor has a rotor shaft entrained in at least one self-compensating bearing assembly. In an aspect, the self-compensating bearing assembly has a split spherical bearing and a compressive bearing pocket. | 09-20-2012 |
20120233805 | Vacuum Motor Scroll Assembly and Vacuums Including Such an Assembly - A scroll assembly for use with a fluid machine, such as a wet/dry vacuum appliance, is described. Such scroll assembly may include a base portion, a cover portion configured to couple to the base portion, and a cavity between the base portion and the cover portion, wherein the cover portion and the base portion collectively form a labyrinth seal when coupled together, and wherein the labyrinth seal at least partially circumscribes the cavity. A vacuum appliance may include a scroll assembly coupled at least partially therein. A method of exhausting air from a vacuum appliance may include energizing a vacuum motor, thereby drawing air into the scroll assembly, allowing the air to contact a flow splitter, and allowing the air to exit the vacuum appliance. | 09-20-2012 |
20120230661 | Apparatus and Method for Control of a Thermostat - Controllers and methods for activating a switching device to apply electrical power to a heating element are provided. One example controller includes a temperature sensor disposed within the fluid and configured to sense an ambient temperature of the fluid, a switching device configured to apply electrical power to a heating element, and a processor coupled to the temperature sensor and the switching device. The processor is configured to determine a temperature delta value based on the sensed ambient temperature from the temperature sensor and a set point temperature, to determine an offset based on an average duty cycle of a switching device for a predetermined number of historical time intervals, and to calculate a duty cycle based on the temperature delta value and the offset. | 09-13-2012 |
20120227682 | Systems and Methods for Controlling a Water Heater - A control system for a water heater generally includes a water heater controller configured to receive upper and lower sensor temperatures associated with water in the respective upper and lower portions of the tank. The water heater controller is configured to determine a value indicative of a portion of water in the tank at a desired set-point temperature as a function of the upper sensor temperature, the lower sensor temperature, and the desired set-point temperature. The water heater controller is configured to wirelessly transmit at least one signal indicative of said value indicative of the portion of water in the tank at the desired set-point temperature. A user interface includes a plurality of selectively illuminated segmented portions. The user interface is configured to receive said value from the water heater controller and to selectively illuminate a number of segmented portions representative of said value. | 09-13-2012 |
20120227209 | BALANCED HARNESS FOR BACKPACK VACUUM APPLIANCE - A harness system for a backpack appliance may include a base, a waist support, a support member coupled to the base and adapted to couple to the appliance, and at least one shoulder strap. The shoulder strap may have a first end coupled to the base and a second end configured to couple to the appliance. The base may be configured to couple with the appliance. A method of supporting an appliance on a user may include coupling the appliance to a harness system, disposing a coupler adjacent a position on the user's back, and supporting the appliance with a support member in a pendulumlike manner. The pendulum may have a rest position, and the method may include biasing the appliance toward the rest position. | 09-13-2012 |
20120226388 | Controllers and Related Methods - Controllers and methods for controlling operation of a climate control appliance for heating and/or cooling a space are provided. One example controller includes a memory for storing at least one temperature offset and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor is configured to receive the reduced operation request from at least one of a utility provider and a user of the controller, to receive a sensed temperature from at least one sensor disposed within the space, and to determine an artificial temperature based on the sensed temperature and the at least one temperature offset associated with the reduced operation request. The processor is configured to, in response to the reduced operation request, operate the climate control appliance based on a comparison of the set-point temperature and artificial temperature during a reduced operation interval, to thereby reduce operation of the climate control appliance in response to the reduced operation request. | 09-06-2012 |
20120203501 | DRAIN CLEANING APPARATUS WITH ELECTRONIC CABLE MONITORING SYSTEM - A drain cleaning machine with an electronic cable monitoring system is disclosed which comprises a frame supporting a rotatable drum which is driven by a motor through an endless belt. The drum contains a flexible drain cleaning cable which is rotatable with the drum and axially displaceable into and out from the drum, and the frame supports a cable feeding device through which the cable extends and by which the cable is displaced into and out of the drum. An electronic cable monitoring system is configured to assess an amount of cable payed out from and retracted into the drum. A process determines an amount and direction of relative movement between a rotatable drum and a cable follower member and generates a signal representative of an amount of cable payed out or retracted into the drum. | 08-09-2012 |
20120193460 | FOOD WASTE DISPOSER WITH INDUCED DISCHARGE TURBULENCE - A food waste disposer has a food conveying section that receives food waste and water; a grind section including a grind mechanism, and a motor section including a motor. The grind mechanism includes a rotating shredder plate assembly that is rotated in a grind ring to grind food waste to form a slurry of ground food waste and water. The upper end bell has a circumferentially sloped floor and the upper end bell also includes a turbulence imparting feature that imparts turbulence in the slurry as it flows through a discharge channel of the upper end bell. | 08-02-2012 |
20120180210 | SINK FLANGE AND COLLAR ASSEMBLY FOR A FOOD WASTE DISPOSER - A sink flange and collar assembly for a food waste disposer includes a sink flange having a tubular body portion and an annular flange transversely extending from the tubular body portion. An outer radial surface of the tubular body portion having at least one first dimple extending outwardly from the outer radial surface. A collar has a dimple attachment recess adapted to slidably receive the at least one first dimple, and a dimple insertion track transversely oriented to the dimple attachment recess to releasably engage with the at least one dimple to releasably engage the collar to the sink flange. | 07-19-2012 |
20120176252 | Apparatus and Method for Determining Load of Energy Consuming Appliances Within a Premises - Disclosed herein are exemplary embodiments of apparatus and methods for determining load of energy consuming appliances within a premises. An exemplary embodiment includes a thermostat operable for displaying information relating to energy consumption associated with an energy consuming load in a premise. In this exemplary embodiment, the thermostat includes a display device and a processor. The processor is configured to receive a signal including energy consumption information. The processor is further configured to control the display device to display a graph indicating an estimated cost of energy consumed for days within a given month. | 07-12-2012 |
20120175834 | GROUNDING COMPONENT FOR ELECTRIC WELDING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A variety of work stands and support assemblies for supporting workpieces such as pipes, are described. The work stands include a base plate and a welding stand-off or grounding lug, at which an electrical grounding cable can be readily attached. | 07-12-2012 |
20120175833 | PIPE VISE STANDS AND COMPONENTS FOR INCREASING CAPACITY THEREOF - A pipe vise stand and system for increasing the size capacity of the pipe vise stand are described. Upon incorporation of the system in a pipe vise stand, the stand can accommodate pipes of significantly larger diameter. The system includes a pipe support member which is configured to be positioned on a vise base of the stand. The system also includes a jackscrew extender that provides or relocates a jackscrew associated with the stand to a lateral position alongside the stand. Related provisions and methods are also described. | 07-12-2012 |
20120174649 | PIPE VISE STAND - A pipe vise stand having increased utility and greater useable work space, particularly during use of vise provisions associated with the stand, is described. The stand features a base plate having a unique configuration in which one or more pipe benders are located within a workpiece support region defined along an upwardly directed face of the plate between vise provisions and corresponding support provisions | 07-12-2012 |
20120145264 | Hot Side Only Spring Return Used On Single Lever Hot/Cold Faucet With Locking Mechanism - A faucet includes a valve body having a cartridge receiving bore. A valve cartridge is sealingly disposed in the bore. The valve cartridge includes a rotatable stem. An arc-shaped slot is created in the valve cartridge. A lever assembly having a single handle is connected to the stem and operates when rotated in a first direction to permit cold water flow through the valve body, and after being depressed can be rotated in an opposite second direction to permit hot water flow through the valve body. A torsion spring has a first post received in the elongated slot translatable between opposed ends of the elongated slot, and a second post received in a lever assembly aperture preventing second post translation. A biasing force of the torsion spring biases the lever assembly toward a valve closed position only when the lever assembly is rotated in the second direction. | 06-14-2012 |
20120126659 | FULL ROUND STATOR ASSEMBLY AND ELECTROMAGNETIC MACHINE HAVING HIGH SLOT FILL - An electromagnetic machine has a rotor and a stator core. The stator core has a plurality of radially-extending teeth and a plurality of bridges having opposite ends secured to corresponding teeth. Stator windings are positioned at least partially in slots between the teeth. Each of the bridges is in a compressed configuration and includes a midsection radially offset from the ends. In a method of making an electromagnetic machine, stator windings are wound around the teeth of the stator core while the stator core is in an expanded configuration in which each of the slots is relatively wider and the configuration of the stator core is changed after winding, for example by compressing or otherwise deforming the bridges, to a compressed configuration in which each of the slots is relatively narrower. The bridges hold the teeth in the expanded configuration facilitating high slot fill without using a segmented stator. | 05-24-2012 |
20120118989 | SMART ENERGY CONTROLLED WATER HEATER - A control module for a water heater includes a switching module that receives a voltage supply and outputs the voltage supply to the water heater. The water heater includes an electrical junction box that receives the voltage supply. A communication module communicates with at least one of an energy meter and an energy network external to the water heater and the control module, and receives information from the at least one of the energy meter and the energy network. The control module is mounted on the water heater and the voltage supply passes through or adjacent to the control module. The control module determines an operating characteristic of the water heater based on the voltage supply and selectively actuates the switching module to turn on and turn off the voltage supply to the water heater in response to the operating characteristic and the information. | 05-17-2012 |
20120098384 | End Caps for Stator Segments of Segmented Stator Assemblies - An example end cap of a stator segment is provided for use in locating wires in a segmented stator assembly in desired positions. The end cap generally includes a body and an inboard wall. An identifier is defined by the inboard wall of the end cap for use in determining wire sizes to be used with the end cap. Terminal pockets are provided in the body for receiving the wires and making desired electrical connections, and steps located in the terminal pockets help secure the connectors in the terminal pockets. Plateaus, and troughs defined in the plateaus, are located outside the terminal pockets for use in trimming wires received in the terminal pockets as desired. And, retaining structures are located around the end cap to help with locating the wires in the desired positions. | 04-26-2012 |
20120098380 | End Caps for Stator Segments of Segmented Stator Assemblies - An example end cap of a stator segment is provided for use in locating wires in a segmented stator assembly in desired positions. The end cap generally includes a body and an inboard wall. An identifier is defined by the inboard wall of the end cap for use in determining wire sizes to be used with the end cap. Terminal pockets are provided in the body for receiving the wires and making desired electrical connections, and steps located in the terminal pockets help secure the connectors in the terminal pockets. Plateaus, and troughs defined in the plateaus, are located outside the terminal pockets for use in trimming wires received in the terminal pockets as desired. And, retaining structures are located around the end cap to help with locating the wires in the desired positions. | 04-26-2012 |
20120089473 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR HISTORICAL INFORMATION MANAGEMENT - A networked computer system is provided for collecting and displaying historical content comprising a plurality of digital objects associated with a historical period or event. The computer system is comprised of one or more networked servers for processing the historical content. The servers are configured to access a database of host historical content input by an operator and user historical content input by a user, and display the historical content. One or more software applications running on the servers facilitate collection, integration and display of historical content. The software applications provide a template accessible to a user via a computer in communication with the network. The template is configured to allow the user to input the user historical content and relate a portion of the host historical content to create a user website integrating the user historical content with a portion of the host historical content. | 04-12-2012 |
20120080546 | FOOD WASTE DISPOSER AND MOUNTING FLANGE THEREFOR WITH MIS-INSTALLATION PREVENTION FEATURES - A mounting assembly for a food waste disposer includes a lower mounting flange having mounting tabs that engage with mounting ramps of an upper mounting flange. The lower mounting flange is rotated with its mounting tabs riding on the mounting ramps of the upper mounting flange to bring the upper and lower mounting flanges securely together. The lower mounting flange includes mis-installation prevention features that if all the mounting tabs of the lower mounting flange are not properly engaged with corresponding mounting ramps of the upper mounting flange, at least one of the mis-installation prevention features will interfere with one of the mounting ramps and prevent the lower mounting flange from being rotated. | 04-05-2012 |
20120080102 | Reversible Flow Valve Assembly - A valve is provided that comprises a valve chamber including first and second valve port openings in communication with first and second inlet/outlets, respectively. A shaft is rotatably disposed in the valve chamber. A first valve plate is rotatably coupled to the shaft that is disposed in the valve chamber over the first valve port opening. The first valve plate has a first opening positioned so as to align with the first valve port opening. The first valve plate is configured to rotate from its closed position covering the first valve port opening to an open position, where rotation of the first valve plate adjustably positions at least a portion of the first opening over the first valve port opening. A second valve plate is configured to rotate with the first valve plate, and to cover the second valve port opening. | 04-05-2012 |
20120074807 | Retaining Sleeve for Over Molding Magnets - A retaining sleeve for retaining magnets inserted therein so that the magnets may be overmolded with a polymer pursuant to the manufacture of a rotor for an electric motor. The retaining sleeve comprising a generally cylindrical portion having an inner peripheral surface concentric about a central axis and a plurality of retaining partitions extending inward from the inner peripheral surface of the generally cylindrical portion, wherein the retaining partitions are configured to at least substantially limit movement of the magnets toward the central axis upon the magnets being inserted in the retaining sleeve at their respective locations inward of the inner peripheral surface of the retaining sleeve and between retaining partitions. | 03-29-2012 |
20120074129 | TRACK SYSTEM FOR HEATER ASSEMBLY - A heater assembly includes a heating element assembly having a resistive heating element connected to a housing member. First and second guide members are oppositely and outwardly positioned with respect to the heating element assembly and extend away from the housing member. A patch plate includes an installation aperture and first and second wings extending away from the patch plate. The first and second guide members are positioned to individually slidingly engage with one of the first and second wings thereby defining a track system to permit the heating element assembly to be slidingly received through the installation aperture without contact between the resistive heating element and the patch plate. | 03-29-2012 |
20120043846 | MOTOR WITH IMPEDANCE BALANCED WINDING - A three-phase electric motor assembly is configured to include phase windings that are substantially equally distributed between radially inner portions and radially outer portions within axial slots of a stator core. At least two of the phase windings each include radial inner portions within selected slots and radial outer portions within other slots, such that each of the radial inner portions is positioned within a slot radially inward from the radial outer portion of another of the phase windings, and each of the radial outer portions is positioned within a slot radially outward from the radial inner portion of another of the phase windings. The motor assembly provides balanced impedance between the phase windings to minimize losses attributed to inter-phase circulating currents, increasing overall motor efficiency. The arrangement of the phase windings configures the winding for more direct exposure of at least a part of each phase winding to a cooling system for enhanced heat rejection from end coils. Methods for inserting partial phase windings that can be mechanically executed are also provided. | 02-23-2012 |
20120043844 | Direct Drive Rotor with Metal Coupler - An overmolded-type rotor for an outer rotor-type electric motor, wherein, in addition to a backing ring and magnets, a metallic coupler that comprises an inner axial surface configured to interface with a shaft to be driven by the rotor and an outer axial surface that corresponds to a multiplicity of outer teeth is overmolded with a polymer frame. | 02-23-2012 |
20120042759 | SOIL PIPE CUTTER JAW FOR PRESS TOOL AND RELATED METHODS - A cutting tool is described. The tool engages with a standard press tool and is used for cutting brittle pipe such as cast iron soil pipe. The tool features a cutting chain assembly that is tensioned about the pipe by a pair of pivotally moveable arms. | 02-23-2012 |
20120039679 | SYSTEMS AND DEVICES FOR PERFORMING POWERED THREADING OPERATIONS - A device and associated system for threading, cutting, and reaming pipe ends are described. The device and system utilizes a brushless DC electric motor. The devices also include on-board electronics and operator interface(s) to provide sophisticated control and information as to the various operations. Also described are methods of operating the devices and several different modes for performing various operations. | 02-16-2012 |
20120034403 | HERMETIC GLASS-TO-METAL SEAL ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING HERMETIC GLASS-TO-METAL SEAL ASSEMBLY - A glass-to-metal hermetic seal assembly in a sight glass assembly or a hermetic terminal assembly is disclosed and includes a glass component, an intermediate component, and an outer ring. The intermediate component is provided around the glass component. The glass component is fused to the intermediate component. The outer ring, which has a coefficient of thermal expansion that is greater than a coefficient of thermal expansion of the glass component, compresses the intermediate component against the glass component to create a hermetic compression seal. | 02-09-2012 |
20120032629 | Electric Motor and Motor Control - Various embodiments of an electric motor and electronic control for an electric motor are disclosed. An exemplary electric motor comprises a single-phase brushless permanent magnet electric motor. In exemplary embodiments, the electronic motor control is configured to commutate an electric motor at a frequency other than line frequency, perform pulse width modulation, and drive the electric motor with a drive waveform that approximates the counter-electromotive force of the motor. | 02-09-2012 |
20120032624 | Method and Apparatus for Motor Control - Various embodiments of a motor controller are disclosed. In exemplary embodiments, the motor controller can be instructed to select an operational profile based on the duration of power loss. In an exemplary embodiment, the system comprises a battery or capacitor to provide power to a microcontroller in the motor controller while power is disconnected. | 02-09-2012 |
20120025646 | Cooling Tower Motor Having Improved Moisture Protection - An electrical motor has been developed having an epoxy, which encapsulates a stator winding to protect the stator winding from the humid and damp atmosphere associated with a cooling tower. The electrical motor includes a stator core, a stator winding configured about the stator core, and an epoxy encapsulating at least an end portion of the stator winding, the epoxy enabling the stator winding to be isolated from an atmosphere surrounding a fan within in a cooling tower operated by the electrical motor in which the stator core and the stator winding are positioned. | 02-02-2012 |
20110316375 | HIGH EFFICIENCY SALIENT POLE MACHINE AND METHOD OF FORMING THE SAME - A salient pole machine and method of forming the same comprising a rotating field assembly and at least one inter-pole cap connected to the rotating field assembly and/or at least end coil cap connected to the rotating field assembly. Each inter-pole cap preferably includes a top surface that has a curvature and/or at least one cavity. Each end coil cap may include at least one support. The salient pole machine may also include at least one fan assembly independent of the rotating field assembly. In a preferred embodiment, the salient pole machine includes at least one mounting plate, wherein each fan assembly is mounted on the mounting plate. The inter-pole caps and the end coil caps preferably comprise composites, polymers, alloys, ceramics, or naturally occurring materials. | 12-29-2011 |
20110314628 | Accessory Wand Storage Assembly for Use with Vacuum Appliances, and Vacuums Using the Same - A vacuum extension wand accessory storage assembly for use with a wet/dry vacuum that improves user access to the wands while simultaneously preventing accidental loss or dislodgement of the wands when the vacuum is not in use. The wand storage design includes the combination of a channeled, shaped surface formed in the bottom of the vacuum collection drum and an accessory attachment system on the bottom of the vacuum appliance having both front and rear securement assemblies which in combination secure the extension wands in place below the collection drum of the vacuum appliance in the event of vacuum transportation, lifting, or storage. | 12-29-2011 |
20110309785 | 3T-Y WINDING CONNECTION FOR THREE PHASE MULTIPLE-SPEED MOTOR - A three-phase, multi-speed electric induction motor assembly is configured to include a controller to change motor speeds. The motor assembly includes a stator core assembly, a pair of main winding coil groups corresponding with each phase, and a pair of selectable extra winding coil groups corresponding with each phase. During the lower-speed operation, the controller connects a first set of three leads to a power source such that only the main coil groups are energized. During the higher-speed operation, the controller connects a second set of three leads to the power source such that both the main coil groups and the selectable extra coil groups are energized. | 12-22-2011 |
20110291519 | Segmented Stator Assemblies Having End Caps - Segmented stator assemblies having a plurality of stator segments and a plurality of end caps are disclosed. According to one example embodiment, a segmented stator assembly includes a plurality of stator segments and a plurality of end caps. Each stator segment has a yoke portion and a tooth portion extending from the yoke portion. Each end cap is positioned over one of the stator segments. Each end cap includes a body portion positioned at least partially over the yoke portion of its associated stator segment. At least one of the body portions includes at least a first post that cooperates with a post of an adjacent end cap to define a first wire management tie-down. The stator assembly further includes a stator wire coupled to the first wire management tie-down. Stator assemblies and end caps having other wire management and routing features are also disclosed. | 12-01-2011 |
20110274560 | Pump Assemblies, Controllers and Methods of Controlling Fluid Pumps Based on Air Temperature - Pump assemblies, controllers and methods of controlling fluid pumps based on air temperatures are disclosed. One example method of controlling a fluid pump includes determining an air temperature, determining a run time of the fluid pump based on the determined air temperature, and running the fluid pump for a duration corresponding to the determined run time. One example controller for a fluid pump includes a temperature sensor for measuring an air temperature and a processor for controlling a run time of the fluid pump. The processor is operably coupled to the temperature sensor and configured to adjust the run time of the fluid pump based on a predetermined run time and the air temperature measured by the temperature sensor. The pump assemblies, controllers and methods may be used in swimming pools and various other applications. | 11-10-2011 |
20110266473 | Gas Valve and Method of Control - A stepper-motor gas valve control is disclosed that includes a main diaphragm in a chamber that controllably displaces a valve relative to an opening in response to changes in pressure, to adjust fuel flow through the valve. A servo-regulator diaphragm is provided to regulate flow to the main diaphragm, to thereby control the rate of fuel flow. A stepper motor is configured to move in a stepwise manner to displace the servo-regulator diaphragm, to control fluid flow to the main diaphragm. A controller mounted on the stepper-motor regulated gas valve control receives and converts an input control signal from a heating system to a reference value between 0 and 5 volts, and selects a corresponding motor step value. The control responsively moves the stepper-motor in a step wise manner to displace the servo-regulator diaphragm and thereby regulates the rate of fuel flow through the valve. | 11-03-2011 |
20110254477 | BLOWER MOTOR FOR HVAC SYSTEMS - A blower motor assembly having a variable speed motor that is suitable for replacing a PSC motor in a residential HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. The blower motor assembly includes a variable speed motor and motor controller; a first power input for receiving a plurality of AC power signals from a control device for use in determining an operating parameter for the motor; and a second power input for receiving AC power from an AC power source for powering the motor controller even when no AC power signals are received by the first power input. | 10-20-2011 |
20110240070 | Offset Inlet Dishwasher Pumps - A dishwasher pump assembly according to one example embodiment includes a pump having a housing and a pumping chamber within the housing. The pumping chamber includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The fluid inlet has a center axis. The assembly also includes a motor having a shaft operably coupled to the pump for rotating the pump. The shaft has a center axis that is offset from the center axis of the fluid inlet. Other embodiments, assemblies and methods are also disclosed. | 10-06-2011 |
20110231020 | System for Remote Control of a Condition at a Site - A system is provided for remote control of at least one operating condition of a site. The system includes a proximity detection module at a residential site, which is configured to receive a communication regarding a location of a location reporting device or a mobile device. The proximity detection module is configured to alter or adjust a current temperature setting for the site based on a distance or location of the location reporting device or mobile device relative to the site. | 09-22-2011 |
20110221381 | ELECTRIC MOTOR AND SWITCH FOR ELECTRIC MOTOR HAVING ARC BARRIER - A switch for an electric motor has a switch arm comprising a lever and an arc barrier formed integrally with the lever. The switch has first and second electrical contacts. The switch arm and second electrical contact are moveable relative to the first contact between an open position and a closed position. The arc barrier is positioned adjacent the first contact in the closed position. The arc barrier limits the risk of electrical arcing associated with the electrical contacts. The switch is suitable for use in an electric induction motor. For example, the switch can be adapted to de-energize auxiliary start windings when an electric induction motor is up to speed and/or to provide a signal indicating the motor is operating. | 09-15-2011 |
20110198956 | Stator with Monolithic Mounting Bosses and Assembly Comprising the Same - A stator comprises a ferromagnetic core having teeth. The stator also comprises first and second insulator members. The first and second insulating members collectively encircle each of the teeth of the core. The first insulating member comprising a plurality of mounting bosses spaced circumferentially from each other about the axis. Each of the mounting bosses has first and second retaining surfaces. The first and second retaining surfaces face axially opposite directions from each other and are exposed and are unobstructed by the second insulating member. | 08-18-2011 |
20110197451 | CUTTER FOR PRESS TOOL - A cutting tool is disclosed which can be used in conjunction with a press tool, and in particular, a hydraulically operated hand held press tool. The cutting tool is selectively engaged with the press tool such that upon operation of the press tool, a cutting blade is pivoted past a wire or cable supporting cradle region to thereby cut or otherwise sever the wire or cable. | 08-18-2011 |
20110193683 | PHYSICAL ADDRESSING FOR TRANSIENT VOLTAGE SURGE SUPPRESSOR MODULES - A multidimensional addressing network for a power system comprising a number of substantially identical modules monitoring a plurality of surge suppressors. Each module may be uniquely selected or identified based at least in part on its physical relationship with the base plates and other modules. | 08-11-2011 |
20110193433 | Stator with Cavity for Retaining Wires and Method of Forming the Same - A stator comprises a cavity formed into the insulator of the windings. The non-wound wire sections that extend from the windings and the electrical conductors attached thereto are housed within the cavity. A cap locks onto the stator insulator and prevents the non-wound sections of wire from migrating out of the cavity. | 08-11-2011 |
20110182656 | SLEEVED COUPLING - A sleeved coupling for retaining a helically wound cable onto a connector or other component is described. The sleeve is positioned against a shoulder region of a connector and extends over a portion of the cable end. The sleeved coupling significantly increases the torque carrying capability of the resulting cable and connector assembly and achieves performance characteristics similar to welding the cable and connectors together. | 07-28-2011 |
20110178773 | System and Method for Detecting Fluid Delivery System Conditions Based on Motor Parameters - Systems and methods for detecting various system conditions in a fluid delivery system (such as an HVAC system) based on a motor parameter are disclosed. Embodiments of the present invention relate to detecting: filter condition, frozen coil condition, register condition, energy efficiency, system failure, or any combination thereof. Embodiments of the present invention relate to detecting fluid delivery system conditions based on motor parameters including system current, system power, system efficiency, motor current, motor power, motor efficiency, and/or a change (or rate of change) in motor parameters. Techniques for responding to a clogged filter and a frozen coil are also disclosed. Also disclosed are techniques for characterizing a fluid delivery system off-site, prior to system installation. | 07-21-2011 |
20110169940 | CAMERA MANIPULATING DEVICE FOR VIDEO INSPECTION SYSTEM - A camera manipulating device for a camera attached to a cable includes a first member, a second member, and a connecting member disposed therebetween. The first member is attached to the camera so that the camera moves with the first member. The second member is rotatably mounted over the cable. The camera is movable in a first plane when the connecting member defines an angle relative to the second member. The camera is movable in a second plane perpendicular to the first plane when the second member is rotated around the cable. | 07-14-2011 |
20110144937 | DEVICE AND METHOD OF SENSING TEMPERATURE OF A ROTATING ELECTROMAGNETIC MACHINE - A system and method of determining the temperature of a rotating electromagnetic machine, such as an electric motor or generator. A temperature calibration parameter is calculated based on the temperature of an object situated close to the motor, such as a motor drive connected to the motor, and a first resistance value of the winding. In exemplary embodiments, the motor drive and first resistance value are determined only after the motor has been idle for some predetermined time period. Once the calibration parameter is calculated, the processor uses it along with subsequent resistance measurements to calculate the temperature of the motor. | 06-16-2011 |
20110141781 | POWER SUPPLY CONTINUOUS INPUT VOLTAGE EXTENDER - A system and method for providing acceptable output power from a wide range of received power, comprising: outputting a received voltage as an output voltage if the received voltage does not exceed a threshold; and limiting the output voltage to the threshold if the received voltage exceeds the threshold. Limiting the output voltage may comprise dropping an excess voltage across a switching element, wherein the excess voltage is the received voltage minus the threshold. | 06-16-2011 |
20110141770 | POWER SUPPLY DISCONTINUOUS INPUT VOLTAGE EXTENDER - A system and method for converting a relatively high voltage into a relatively low voltage, the method comprising the steps of: receiving a first series of pulses at the relatively high voltage and a first frequency; and converting the first series of pulses into a second series of pulses at a second voltage lower than the relatively high voltage and a second frequency higher than the first frequency. The first series of pulses may be a waveform and the converting step may be triggered by the waveform of the first series of pulses exceeding the relatively low voltage. The first series of pulses may be direct current pulses and the receiving step may comprise receiving an alternating current voltage and rectifying the alternating current voltage into the first series of pulses. The second frequency may be some multiple of the first frequency, such as twice the first frequency. | 06-16-2011 |
20110140567 | Low Noise Rotor or Stator of an Electric Motor or Generator and Method of Assembling the Same - A stator or rotor of an electric motor or generator comprises a core formed of ferromagnetic material having a plurality of teeth arranged circumferentially about an axis. In one aspect of the invention, at least one retaining member connects the end portions of at least two of the teeth to each other in a manner inhibiting relative movement between said tooth end portions. By inhibiting relative movement between said tooth end portions, vibration is reduced. Vibration can also be reduced by welding interior surfaces of a core to each other. Reducing the vibration reduces the noise emissions of the rotor or stator during operation. | 06-16-2011 |
20110133005 | FLUSHING WATER CONTROL FOR A FOOD WASTE DISPOSER BASED ON VISUAL DETECTION OF FOOD WASTE - Visual detection of food waste is used to control flow of flushing water to a food waste disposer. When the disposer is turned on, flushing water is also turned on at a low flow rate. The flushing water is directed into the food waste disposer. A visual detection sensor, which is coupled to a controller, is oriented to detect food waste entering the food waste disposer. Upon detection of the presence of food waste, the controller changes the rate of flow of the flushing water from the low flow rate to a high flow rate. The controller maintains the flow rate of the flushing water at the high flow rate for as long as food waste is detected as entering the food waste disposer and for a period after food waste is no longer detected to allow the food waste to be comminuted and flushed from the food waste disposer. | 06-09-2011 |
20110129205 | FLOW-THROUGH HEATER - A flow-through heater includes a tubular housing and a heating element. The tubular housing defines a passageway. The heating element is provided in the passageway and attached to the tubular housing. The heating element includes a resistive wire and an electrically insulating coating on the resistive wire. The heating element includes a coiled wire portion coiled along a longitudinal axis of the tubular housing. The coiled wire portion defines a channel extending in a direction along the longitudinal axis to enable a fluid to flow therethrough. The coiled wire portion contacts the fluid when the fluid flows through the channel. | 06-02-2011 |
20110115325 | MOTOR ENDSHIELD - An electric motor assembly is configured to be mounted within a machine in a selected one of multiple possible motor dispositions corresponding with different motor axis positions. The motor assembly includes an endshield having a pair of opposite generally radially-extending mounting flanges. Each mounting flange presents an engagement portion that includes a plurality of spaced apart, dissimilarly-shaped fastener-receiving recesses that extend in a generally common direction and are configured to alternately receive a fastener therein. The pair of flanges cooperatively present corresponding sets of like-shaped recesses, each of which is associated with one of the motor dispositions, but only one of the sets of recesses extends entirely through the engagement portions to define a single set of like-shaped through holes corresponding to the selected motor disposition. A method of manufacturing components for electric motor assemblies configured to be mounted within respective machines in a selected one of multiple possible dispositions is also disclosed. | 05-19-2011 |
20110112787 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING LOCATIONS OF BURIED OBJECTS - A method is provided for reporting location of a buried object detected by a utility locator device. The method includes: determining location of a buried object using electromagnetic field emissions emitted from a utility locator device, determining global coordinates for the location of the buried object using a global positioning system (GPS), determining an accuracy measure for the global coordinates using the accuracy of the location determined by the locator and the accuracy of the GPS; and reporting the global coordinates for the buried object, along with the accuracy measure, to an operator of the utility locator device. An operator of the locator may be notified when the accuracy measure for the global coordinates exceeds a tolerance for reporting the location of the buried object. | 05-12-2011 |
20110109258 | 2 SPEED 2/4-POLE PSC/PSC MOTOR WITH INDEPENDENT MAIN WINDINGS AND SHARED AUXILIARY WINDING - A PSC/PSC motor for 2-pole operation and 4-pole operation. The motor uses an independent 2-pole main winding and an independent 4-pole main winding. An auxiliary winding includes an independent 2-pole auxiliary winding, an independent 4-pole auxiliary winding, and a shared auxiliary winding used in both the 2-pole operation and the 4-pole operation. | 05-12-2011 |
20110108654 | REEL FRAMES FOR REMOTE VIDEO INSPECTION SYSTEMS - A frame assembly for a cable reel includes a lower support frame for rotatably supporting a drum and an upper support member attached to the lower support frame. The upper support member is disposed above the drum and defines a planar top surface when the upper support member is in the working position. The upper support member may be configured to form a folding seat for a user, a drawer for storage and/or a platform for placing a device thereon. | 05-12-2011 |
20110108320 | HERMETIC FEED-THROUGH WITH HYBRID SEAL STRUCTURE - A power terminal feed-through includes a housing body, a plurality of conductive pins, and a seal structure that hermetically seals the conductive pins to the housing body and electrically insulates the conductive pins from the housing body. The seal structure includes a first material fused to one of the housing body and the conductive pin, and a second material fused to the other one of the housing body and the conductive pin. The first and second materials may be properly chosen to match thermal expansion of the housing body and the conductive pins, respectively. | 05-12-2011 |
20110078905 | PLASTIC PIPE CUTTER - A hand-held cutting tool is described which is used to readily cut or sever flexible pipe or tubing. The tool features one or more openings in the body of the tool sized to accommodate pipe or tubing to be cut. The tool is used to cut tubing by inserting the tubing into one of the apertures. A retractable blade is urged against the tubing and the tool then orbited about the tubing and/or the tubing rotated until the blade severs the tubing. | 04-07-2011 |
20110073194 | SELF CLEANING VALVE ASSEMBLY - A self cleaning valve assembly includes a valve body having an internal valve cavity. A cylinder member received in the valve cavity has a first sealing surface and a cylinder wall, and divides the valve cavity into a liquid-free cavity portion and a flow cavity portion. A spindle includes a spindle body contacting the first sealing surface to continuously prevent pressurized fluid in the flow cavity portion from entering the liquid-free cavity portion. A spindle piston end has a wiper member in a receiving groove frictionally contacting the cylinder wall. A handle pinned to the valve assembly directly contacts the piston end. Handle rotation displaces the spindle from a valve closed to a valve open position permitting pressurized fluid flow into the flow cavity portion. The wiper member wipes a contaminant off the cylinder wall and further prevents contaminant entrance into the liquid-free cavity portion. | 03-31-2011 |